This is a modern-English version of The Vortex: A Play in Three Acts, originally written by Coward, Noel. It has been thoroughly updated, including changes to sentence structure, words, spelling, and grammar—to ensure clarity for contemporary readers, while preserving the original spirit and nuance. If you click on a paragraph, you will see the original text that we modified, and you can toggle between the two versions.

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TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE

NOTE FROM THE TRANSCRIBER

The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.

The cover image was made by the transcriber and is in the public domain.

THE VORTEX

A Play in Three Acts

By
NOEL COWARD

By
Noel Coward

PUBLISHERS

HARPER & BROTHERS

NEW YORK AND LONDON

NYC and London

THE VORTEX

D-A

Applications regarding performing rights
should be addressed to the author
care of the publishers

Requests for performance rights
should be sent to the author
via the publishers

To
G. CALTHROP
WITH A GOOD DEAL OF GRATITUDE

To G. Calthrop With Much Gratitude

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ

Preston
Helen Saville
Pauncefort Quentin
Clara Hibbert
Florence Lancaster
Tom Veryan
Nicky Lancaster
David Lancaster
Bunty Mainwaring
Bruce Fairlight

[1]

THE VORTEX

ACT I

ACT 1

[2-3]

THE VORTEX

THE SPIRAL

ACT I

The scene is the drawing-room of Mrs. Lancaster’s flat in London. The colors and decoration are on the verge of being original. The furniture is simple but distinctly expensive.

The scene is the living room of Mrs. Lancaster's apartment in London. The colors and decor are almost original. The furniture is simple but definitely expensive.

Persons shown are Helen Saville and Pauncefort Quentin. Helen Saville and Pauncefort Quentin are shown in by Preston. Helen is a smartly dressed woman of about thirty. “Pawnie” is an elderly maiden gentleman.

The people shown are Helen Saville and Pauncefort Quentin. Helen Saville and Pauncefort Quentin are introduced by Preston. Helen is a stylishly dressed woman in her thirties. “Pawnee” is an elderly unmarried gentleman.

Preston

I’m expecting Mrs. Lancaster in at any moment now, ma’am.

I’m expecting Mrs. Lancaster to arrive any minute now, ma’am.

Helen

Thank you, Preston, we’ll wait a little.

Thank you, Preston, we'll wait a bit.

Preston

Shall I get you some tea?

[4]

Helen

No, thanks, we’ve already had some—give me a cigarette, Pawnie; they’re in that box on the table.

No, thanks, we’ve already had some—hand me a cigarette, Pawnie; they’re in that box on the table.

[Pawnie hands her cigarette box. Preston goes out.]

[Pawnie hands her cigarette pack. Preston leaves.]

Pawnie

It may be tiresome of me, but I think all this coloring is oppressive.

It might be annoying to say, but I find all this coloring overwhelming.

Helen

You make such a “fetish” of house decoration, Pawnie.

You place such an obsession on home decor, Pawnie.

Pawnie

[Wandering round the room]

Wandering around the room

Not at all, but I do like things to be good and right.

Helen

Well, I don’t consider the new frieze in your bathroom either good or right.

Well, I don’t think the new frieze in your bathroom is good or appropriate.

Pawnie

How can you, Helen! It’s too marvelous for words. Parelli designed it specially for me.

How could you, Helen! It’s too amazing for words. Parelli created it just for me.

Helen

Personally, it would make me self-conscious to sit in a bath surrounded by frisky gods and goddesses all with such better figures than mine.

Personally, I'd feel awkward sitting in a bath surrounded by lively gods and goddesses, all of whom have much better bodies than mine.

[5]

Pawnie

I find it encouraging. This whole room is so typical of Florence.

I find it uplifting. This entire room is so characteristic of Florence.

Helen

In what way?

How so?

Pawnie

Every way. Look at the furniture.

Every way. Check out the furniture.

Helen

A little artificial perhaps, but quite harmless.

A bit artificial maybe, but totally harmless.

Pawnie

Dear Helen, you’re such a loyal friend.

Dear Helen, you’re such a faithful friend.

Helen

I’m very fond of Florence.

I really love Florence.

Pawnie

We all are. Oh, my God, look at that lampshade!

We all are. Oh my God, check out that lampshade!

Helen

I gave it to her last Christmas.

Pawnie

Wasn’t that a little naughty of you?

Wasn't that a bit cheeky of you?

[6]

Helen

I don’t see why; it’s extremely pretty.

I don’t understand why; it’s really beautiful.

Pawnie

Too unrestrained. Such a bad example for the servants. [He takes up frame from desk.] Who’s this boy?

Too wild. Such a poor example for the servants. [He picks up a frame from the desk.] Who is this boy?

Helen

Tom Veryan. You must have seen him.

Pawnie

Florence’s past, present, or future?

Florence's past, present, or future?

Helen

Present.

Now.

Pawnie

He has that innocent look that never fails to attract elderly women.

He has that innocent look that always seems to attract older women.

Helen

Don’t be a cat.

Don’t be a coward.

Pawnie

I wasn’t meaning Florence; she’s too divine to be in any marked category.

I didn't mean Florence; she's too amazing to fit into any specific category.

Helen

I wonder.

I'm curious.

[7]

Pawnie

Oh, yes, Helen, deathless sort of magnetism, you know.

Oh, yes, Helen, that timeless kind of magnetism, you know.

Helen

I often wonder what will happen to Florence eventually.

I often wonder what will eventually happen to Florence.

Pawnie

My dear, I’m far too occupied in wondering what’s going to happen to me to worry about other people.

My dear, I'm way too busy thinking about what’s going to happen to me to care about other people.

Helen

I’ve always thought your course was quite clear, Pawnie.

I’ve always thought your course was really clear, Pawnie.

Pawnie

However offensive that remark was intended to be, Helen, I shall take it in the most complimentary spirit.

However offensive that remark was meant to be, Helen, I will take it in the most flattering way.

Helen

I’m sure you will.

Pawnie

I expect Florence will just go on and on, then suddenly become quite beautifully old, and go on and on still more.

I expect Florence will keep going and going, then suddenly become beautifully old, and keep going even longer.

[8]

Helen

It’s too late now for her to become beautifully old, I’m afraid. She’ll have to be young indefinitely.

It’s too late for her to age gracefully, I’m afraid. She’ll have to stay young forever.

Pawnie

I don’t suppose she’ll mind that, but it’s trying for David.

I don't think she'll mind that, but it's tough for David.

Helen

And fiendish for Nicky.

And wicked for Nicky.

Pawnie

Oh, no, my dear; you’re quite wrong there. I’m sure Nicky doesn’t care a damn.

Oh, no, my dear; you’re completely mistaken. I’m sure Nicky doesn’t care at all.

Helen

It’s difficult to tell with Nicky.

It’s hard to figure out Nicky.

Pawnie

He’s divinely selfish; all amusing people are.

He’s wonderfully selfish; all entertaining people are.

Helen

Did you hear him play in Paris?

Did you hear him perform in Paris?

Pawnie

Yes.

Helen

Well?

[9]

Pawnie

Erratic—one or two things perfect, but he’s slovenly.

Erratic—one or two things are great, but he's messy.

Helen

He only takes things seriously in spurts, but still he’s very young.

He only takes things seriously for short periods, but he's still really young.

Pawnie

Do you really think that’s a good excuse.

Do you honestly think that’s a valid excuse?

Helen

No, I’m afraid not, especially when so much depends on it.

No, I'm sorry, but that's not going to happen, especially when so much is at stake.

Pawnie

What does depend on it?

What depends on it?

Helen

Everything—his life’s happiness.

Everything—his life's joy.

Pawnie

Don’t be so terribly intense, dear.

Don't be so serious, babe.

Helen

It’s true.

Pawnie

I’m quite sure Nicky will be perfectly happy as long as he goes on attracting people; he loves being attractive.

I’m pretty sure Nicky will be totally happy as long as he keeps attracting people; he loves being charming.

[10]

Helen

Naturally, he’s Florence’s son.

Of course, he’s Florence’s son.

Pawnie

Such an exciting thing to be.

Helen

You don’t believe Nicky’s got anything in him at all, do you?

You don't think Nicky has anything in him at all, do you?

Pawnie (lightly)

Pawnie (softly)

I don’t think it matters, anyway.

Helen

I do.

Pawnie

But you’ve got a loving nature, Helen. I always know it.

But you have a loving nature, Helen. I’ve always known it.

Helen

Nicky hasn’t had a chance.

Nicky hasn't had a shot.

Pawnie

Nonsense—he’s had everything he wanted ever since the day he was born, and he’ll go on wasting his opportunities until he dies.

Nonsense—he’s had everything he could ever want since the day he was born, and he’ll keep wasting his chances until he dies.

Helen

Quite possibly.

Maybe.

[11]

Pawnie

Well, there you are then.

There you have it.

Helen

He may have had everything he wanted, but he’s had none of the things he really needs.

He might have had everything he wanted, but he hasn't had any of the things he truly needs.

Pawnie

Are you talking socially or spiritually?

Are you talking about social matters or spiritual ones?

Helen

You’re quite right, Pawnie, you wouldn’t be so beautifully preserved if you’d wasted any of your valuable time or sincerity.

You’re absolutely right, Pawnie; you wouldn’t be so beautifully preserved if you had wasted any of your valuable time or honesty.

Pawnie

I forgive you for that, Helen, freely.

I forgive you for that, Helen, no strings attached.

Helen

Thank you so much.

Thanks a lot.

Pawnie

You must realize one thing, everyone is sacrificed to Florence—it’s as it should be—of course, she’s a couple of hundred years too late—she ought to have been a flaunting, intriguing King’s mistress, with black page boys and jade baths and things too divine——

You have to understand one thing: everyone is sacrificed to Florence—it’s the way it is—of course, she’s a couple of hundred years too late—she should have been a captivating, intriguing royal mistress, with black page boys and jade baths and things too divine——

[Enter Preston.]

[12]

Preston

[Announcing]

[Announcement]

Miss Hibbert.

[Enter Clara Hibbert—she is affected, but quite well-dressed. Preston goes out.]

[Enter Clara Hibbert—she looks a bit out of place, but is dressed nicely. Preston exits.]

Clara

My dears. Isn’t Florence back yet?

My loves. Isn’t Florence back yet?

Helen

No, we’re waiting for her.

No, we're waiting for her.

Pawnie

You look harassed, Clara.

You look stressed, Clara.

Clara

I am harassed.

I'm being harassed.

Helen

Why?

Clara

I’m singing to-night for Laura Tennant—she’s giving a dreadful reception at her dreadful house for some dreadful Ambassador——

I’m singing tonight for Laura Tennant—she’s hosting a terrible reception at her awful house for some terrible Ambassador——

Pawnie

How dreadful!

How awful!

[13]

Clara

No one will listen to me, of course—they’ll all be far too busy avoiding the Cup and searching for the Champagne.

No one is going to listen to me, of course—they'll all be way too busy dodging the Cup and looking for the Champagne.

Helen

What are you singing?

Clara

One Gabriel Faure, two Reynaldo Hahn’s and an Aria.

One Gabriel Fauré, two Reynaldo Hahn's, and an aria.

Pawnie

Which Aria?

Which song?

Clara

I can’t think, but my accompanist will know—I’ve got a frightful headache.

I can’t think, but my accompanist will know—I have a terrible headache.

Helen

Why don’t you take off your hat?

Why don't you take off your hat?

Clara

My dear, I daren’t—I’ve just had my hair done—I suppose you haven’t got a “Cachet Faivre,” either of you?

My dear, I can't—I just got my hair done—I guess you don't have a "Cachet Faivre," do you?

Helen

No, but Florence has, I expect—Preston will know where they are—ring the bell, Pawnie.

No, but Florence has, I think—Preston will know where they are—ring the bell, Pawnie.

[14]

Pawnie

[Ringing bell]

[Notification sound]

My poor Clara—I do hope your singing to-night will justify the fuss you’re making this afternoon.

My poor Clara—I really hope your singing tonight will be worth all the fuss you're making this afternoon.

Clara

Don’t be so brutal, Pawnie.

Don’t be so harsh, Pawnie.

Helen

Is Gregory going with you?

Is Gregory coming with you?

Clara

Of course—I never sing unless he’s there—he gives me such marvelous moral support.

Of course—I never sing unless he’s around—he gives me such amazing moral support.

Pawnie

“Moral” is hardly the word I should have chosen, dear.

[Enter Preston.]

Helen

Do you know if Mrs. Lancaster has any “Cachet Faivre” anywhere?

Do you know if Mrs. Lancaster has any “Cachet Faivre” around?

Preston

Yes, ma’am—I think so.

Yes, ma'am—I think so.

Clara

Do get me one, Preston, I’m suffering tortures.

Do get me one, Preston, I’m really struggling here.

[15]

Preston

Very well, miss.

Sure thing, miss.

[She goes out.]

She goes out.

Pawnie

Preston has such wonderful poise, hasn’t she?

Preston has such great composure, doesn’t she?

Helen

She needs it in this house.

Clara

I do wish Florence would hurry up. I want to borrow her green fan. I’ve got a new Patou frock that positively demands it.

I really wish Florence would hurry up. I want to borrow her green fan. I’ve got a new Patou dress that absolutely needs it.

Helen

She can’t be long now.

She shouldn't be much longer now.

Clara

I suppose I daren’t ask Preston for the fan and creep away with it?

I guess I can't ask Preston for the fan and sneak away with it?

Helen

I shouldn’t, if I were you—Florence is very touchy over that sort of thing.

I wouldn’t do that if I were you—Florence is really sensitive about that kind of stuff.

Clara

She promised it to me ages ago.

She promised it to me a long time ago.

[16]

Pawnie

Surely there isn’t such a desperate hurry? You won’t be singing until about half-past eleven.

Surely there's no need to rush? You won't be singing until around 11:30.

Clara

[Petulantly]

Petulantly

My dear, I’ve got to rehearse—I don’t know a word——

My dear, I need to practice—I don’t know a thing——

[Re-enter Preston with a “Cachet Faivre” and a glass of water.]

[Re-enter Preston holding a “Cachet Faivre” and a glass of water.]

Clara

You’re a saint, Preston—thank you a thousand times——

You’re a saint, Preston—thank you a thousand times—

Pawnie

Soak it a little first, dear, or you’ll choke, and I should detest that.

Soak it a bit first, dear, or you'll choke, and I would hate that.

[Clara soaks “Cachet” and then swallows it. Preston goes out.]

[Clara soaks “Cachet” and then swallows it. Preston leaves.]

Clara

Now I must lie down flat—get out of the way, Helen.

Now I need to lie down flat—move aside, Helen.

Pawnie

Perhaps you’d like us both to go right out of the room and sit in the hall?

Perhaps you’d like us both to go straight out of the room and sit in the hall?

[17]

Clara

No, Pawnie, I should never expect the least consideration from you.

No, Pawnie, I shouldn’t expect any consideration from you.

[She lies down flat on the divan, Helen arranges cushions for her.]

[She lies down flat on the couch, Helen arranges cushions for her.]

Clara

Thank you, Helen darling—I shall always come to you whenever I’m ill.

Thank you, Helen, sweetheart—I’ll always turn to you whenever I’m not feeling well.

Helen

That will be nice.

That will be nice.

[Enter Florence Lancaster followed by Tom Veryan. Florence is brilliantly dressed almost to the point of being “outré.” Her face still retains the remnants of great beauty. Tom is athletic and good-looking. One feels he is good at games and extremely bad at everything else.]

[Enter Florence Lancaster followed by Tom Veryan. Florence is stunningly dressed, almost to the point of being too flashy. Her face still shows signs of former beauty. Tom is fit and attractive. You get the sense that he excels at sports but struggles with everything else.]

Florence

Helen—Pawnie, have you been here long?

Helen—Pawnie, have you been here for a while?

Pawnie

No, only a few hours.

No, just a few hours.

Florence

My dear. I’m so frightfully sorry—we’ve been held up for ages in the traffic. Davis is a congenital[18] idiot. Always manages to get to a turning just as the policeman puts out his hand. No initiative whatever. What’s happened to Clara? Has she been run over?

My dear. I’m really sorry—we’ve been stuck in traffic for ages. Davis is a total idiot. He always arrives at a turn just as the cop signals us to stop. No initiative at all. What happened to Clara? Has she been hit by a car?

Clara

No, dear, I’ve got a frightful head.

No, dear, I have a terrible headache.

Florence

Pawnie, you know Tom, don’t you?—Tom Veryan, Mr. Quentin, I’m sure you’ll adore each other.

Pawnie, you know Tom, right?—Tom Veryan, Mr. Quentin, I’m sure you two will hit it off.

Tom

[Shaking hands]

[Handshaking]

How are you?

How's it going?

Pawnie

Very well, thank you—how sweet of you to ask me?

Very well, thank you—it's so kind of you to ask me!

Florence

Is there anything I can do, Clara?

Is there anything I can help you with, Clara?

Clara

Yes, dear, lend me your green fan for to-night.

Yes, dear, please lend me your green fan for tonight.

Florence

All right—but you won’t get too carried away with it, will you, dear? I should hate the feathers to come out. Does anyone want any tea?

All right—but you won’t get too carried away with it, will you, dear? I’d hate for the feathers to come out. Does anyone want some tea?

[19]

Helen

No thanks, dear.

No thanks, babe.

Florence

Cocktails, then?

Drinks, then?

Pawnie

It’s too early.

It's too early.

Florence

[Ringing bell]

It’s never too early for a cocktail.

It’s never too early for a drink.

Clara

I should like to go quite quietly into a convent and never see anybody again ever——

I want to quietly go into a convent and never see anyone again.

Pawnie

Gregory would be bored stiff in a convent.

Gregory would be totally bored in a convent.

Florence

We’ve just been to a most frightful Charity matinée. Nothing but inaudible speeches from dreary old actors, and leading ladies nudging one another all over the stage. [Preston enters.] Cocktails, Preston, and ask Barker to wrap up my green fan for Miss Hibbert to take away with her.

We just came back from a really awful charity show. It was filled with barely audible speeches from boring old actors, and the leading ladies were nudging each other all over the stage. [Preston enters.] Get some cocktails, Preston, and tell Barker to wrap up my green fan for Miss Hibbert to take with her.

Preston

Very good, ma’am.

Very well, ma'am.

[She goes out.]

She’s going out.

[20]

Clara

You’re an angel, Florence—I think I’ll sit up now.

You’re amazing, Florence—I think I’ll get up now.

Florence

Do, dear, then Tom will be able to sit down.

Clara

[Sitting up]

Sitting up

I really do feel most peculiar.

I feel really strange.

Pawnie

You look far from normal, dear.

You seem anything but normal, dear.

Clara

If Pawnie’s rude to me any more I shall burst into tears.

If Pawnie is rude to me again, I'm going to start crying.

Florence

Tom, give me a cigarette.

Tom, pass me a cigarette.

Pawnie

Here are some.

Florence

No, Tom has a special rather hearty kind that I adore.

No, Tom has a special, pretty hearty kind that I love.

Clara

Lend me your lip stick, Helen; mine has sunk down into itself.

Lend me your lipstick, Helen; mine has shrunk down into itself.

[21]

Helen

Here you are.

Here you go.

Clara

What a lovely color! I look far prettier than I feel.

What a beautiful color! I look a lot prettier than I feel.

Florence

[To Tom]

Thank you, angel.

Thanks, angel.

Clara

I shan’t be able to get down to the house until Saturday evening, Florence—I’m seeing Gregory off to Newcastle.

I won’t be able to get to the house until Saturday evening, Florence—I’m seeing Gregory off to Newcastle.

Pawnie

Why Newcastle?

Why choose Newcastle?

Clara

His home’s just near there—isn’t it too awful for him?

His home is really close by—how terrible is that for him?

Florence

Well, wire me the time of your train, won’t you?

Well, please text me the time of your train, okay?

Clara

Of course, dear.

Sure thing, dear.

Helen

You’re smelling divinely, Florence. What is it?

You smell amazing, Florence. What is it?

[22]

Florence

[Flicking her handkerchief]

Flicking her tissue

It is good, isn’t it?

It's good, right?

Pawnie

“Narcisse Noir” of Caron. I use it.

“Narcisse Noir” by Caron. I wear it.

Florence

Yes, you would, Pawnie.

[Re-enter Preston with parcel.]

[Re-enter Preston with package.]

Preston

Here is the fan, miss.

Here’s the fan, miss.

Clara

[Taking it]

Taking it

Thank you so much—you are sweet, Florence. A fan gives me such a feeling of security when I’m singing modern stuff. [Preston goes out.] I must rush now——

Thank you so much—you’re so kind, Florence. A fan really makes me feel secure when I’m singing contemporary songs. [Preston goes out.] I need to hurry now——

Florence

Don’t you want a cocktail before you go?

Don’t you want a drink before you leave?

Clara

No, darling—I should only hiccup all the evening. Good-bye, you’ve been such a comfort—good-bye, Helen—Pawnie, you will be nicer to me over the[23] week-end, won’t you? I shall be so depressed, what with Gregory going away and everything—Good-bye, Tom—I shall dine in bed and give way at every pore——

No, honey—I’d just be hiccuping all evening. Goodbye, you’ve been such a comfort—goodbye, Helen—Pawnie, you’ll be nicer to me over the[23] weekend, won’t you? I’ll be so down, with Gregory leaving and everything—Goodbye, Tom—I’ll have dinner in bed and break down at every moment——

[She goes out.]

She’s going out.

Pawnie

Poor Clara—she eternally labors under the delusion that she really matters.

Poor Clara—she's always convinced that she actually matters.

Helen

We all do that a little.

We all do that a bit.

Florence

[Laughing]

[Laughing]

You’re awfully cruel to her, Pawnie.

You’re really mean to her, Pawnie.

Pawnie

She upsets my vibrations.

She disrupts my vibe.

Florence

[Before glass]

[Pre-glass]

I’ve taken a sudden hatred to this hat. [She takes it off.] That’s better—are you going to the “New Elaine” to-night, either of you?

I’ve developed a sudden dislike for this hat. [She takes it off.] That's better—are either of you going to the "New Elaine" tonight?

Helen

I’m not—but Pawnie is, of course.

I’m not, but Pawnie definitely is.

[24]

Pawnie

It’s going to be amazing—what a cast, my dear! Marvelous Selwyn Steele, Nora Dean, and that perfect woman, Lily Burfield——

Helen

I can’t stand her, she always over-acts.

I can't stand her; she always overdoes it.

Pawnie

[Incensed]

Angry

How can you, Helen! Did you see her in “Simple Faith”?

Helen

Yes, unfortunately.

Yeah, unfortunately.

Pawnie

Oh, you’re really too tiresome for words!

Oh, you’re really too exhausting to describe!

Helen

Her technique creaks like machinery.

Her technique feels outdated.

Pawnie

It’s sacrilege—she’s too, too marvelous.

It's outrageous—she's absolutely amazing.

[Enter Preston with a tray of cocktails. All help themselves.]

[Enter Preston with a tray of cocktails. Everyone serves themselves.]

Florence

What do you think about it, Tom?

[25]

Tom

I’ve never seen her.

I've never met her.

Florence

Yes, you have. About three months ago, at the Comedy.

Tom

Oh.... I don’t remember.

Oh... I can't remember.

Pawnie

Don’t remember! An artist like that! Good God, it’s agony!

Don’t remember! An artist like that! Oh my God, it’s torture!

Helen

You’ll look awfully tired at dinner-time, Pawnie, if you don’t calm down a little.

You’re going to look really tired at dinner time, Pawnie, if you don’t chill out a bit.

Florence

This is special—my own invention.

This is special—my own creation.

Helen

Absolutely delicious.

So tasty.

Tom

A bit too sweet.

A little too sweet.

Florence

Tom, darling, don’t be so taciturn—he’s always taciturn after a matinée.

Tom, darling, don’t be so quiet—he’s always quiet after a matinée.

[26]

Pawnie

When’s Nicky coming back?

When's Nicky coming back?

Florence

To-morrow. Isn’t it too divine? He’s been away for a whole year, but I saw him for a moment on my way through Paris last month.

To-morrow. Isn’t it just amazing? He’s been gone for a whole year, but I caught a glimpse of him for a moment while passing through Paris last month.

Pawnie

Has he been working hard?

Has he been putting in effort?

Florence

I suppose so, but you know what Nicky is—bless his heart!

I guess so, but you know what Nicky is—bless his heart!

Pawnie

I heard him play at Yvonne Mirabeau’s.

I heard him play at Yvonne Mirabeau's.

Florence

She’s a loathsome woman, isn’t she?

She’s a horrible person, isn’t she?

Helen

Not as bad as that.

Pawnie

She’s a half-wit. I can’t bear half-wits.

She’s an idiot. I can’t stand idiots.

[27]

Florence

She goes on so dreadfully about things—devastating.

She goes on so annoyingly about things—so frustrating.

Pawnie

Funny Nicky liking her so much.

Funny Nicky really likes her a lot.

Florence

Only because she keeps on saying how wonderful he is—that always appeals to Nicky.

Only because she keeps saying how amazing he is—that always impresses Nicky.

Pawnie

How old is he now?

Florence

Twenty-four. Isn’t it absurd to think I have such a grown-up son—old General Fenwick said last Thursday that—— [The telephone rings; she goes to it.] Hallo—hallo! Yes, my dear. How are you?... Yes, so am I, simply worn out.... No. When? How perfectly marvelous!... No, dear, it’s a prescription; but I can let you have a little in a jar.... Quite easy. All you do is just rub it on at night.... Don’t be so silly.... Not in the least; if you send the car round that will be all right.... Very well.... Good-bye, darling. [She hangs up receiver.] I give Clara Hibbert ten for stupidity. Don’t you, Helen?

Twenty-four. Is it ridiculous to think I have such a grown-up son—old General Fenwick said last Thursday that—— [The phone rings; she answers it.] Hello—hello! Yes, my dear. How are you?… Yes, I’m exhausted too.... No. When? How wonderful!... No, dear, it’s a prescription; but I can give you a little in a jar.... It’s really simple. Just rub it on at night.... Don’t be so ridiculous.... Not at all; if you send the car over, that’ll be fine.... Alright.... Bye, darling. [She hangs up the receiver.] I’d give Clara Hibbert a ten for stupidity. Don’t you think so, Helen?

[28]

Helen

A hundred and ten.

One hundred ten.

Pawnie

Ten’s the limit.

Ten is the limit.

Tom

I say, Florence—I think I’d better be getting along if I’ve got to be dressed and back here by half-past seven——

I say, Florence—I think I should head out if I need to be dressed and back here by 7:30——

Florence

You’ve got half an hour.

You have 30 minutes.

Tom

That’s not very much.

That's not a lot.

Florence

The car’s outside ... take it and send it straight back.

The car’s outside ... take it and send it right back.

Pawnie

Can it drop me, Florence dear? I always feel so much richer in your car than anyone else’s.

Can you give me a ride, Florence? I always feel so much wealthier in your car than in anyone else’s.

Florence

Of course, Pawnie.

Sure thing, Pawnie.

[The telephone rings again.]

[The phone rings again.]

[29]

Florence

[At telephone]

[On the phone]

Hallo!... Yes ... speaking.... How do you do——?

Hallo!... Yes ... speaking.... How are you doing?

Pawnie

Good-bye, Helen. It’s been divine——

Goodbye, Helen. It's been great—

Helen

Ring me up at tea-time to-morrow.

Call me at tea time tomorrow.

Florence

How perfectly sweet of you!... Now, now, really.... Well, naturally, if you persist in saying such charming things ... [laughing gayly] ... What nonsense!...

How incredibly sweet of you!... Now, now, really.... Well, of course, if you keep saying such lovely things ... [laughing merrily] ... What nonsense!...

Pawnie

Good-bye, Florence——

Goodbye, Florence——

Florence

[She puts her hand over mouthpiece]

[She covers her mouth with her hand]

It’s that awful General Fenwick.... Good-bye, Pawnie dear. You’re coming down to the house on Friday?

It’s that terrible General Fenwick.... Bye for now, Pawnie dear. Are you coming over to the house on Friday?

Pawnie

Yes; too lovely——

Yes; too beautiful——

[30]

Florence

Helen’s coming by the five-o’clock—you’d better travel together.

Helen's coming by at five o'clock—you should probably go together.

Pawnie

Perfect. [To Tom.] Are you ready?

Perfect. [To Tom.] You ready?

Tom

Quite.

Absolutely.

Pawnie

[As they go out]

[As they head out]

You can drop me first, can’t you? I’m not as young as I was——

You can drop me first, right? I'm not as young as I used to be——

Florence

[At telephone]

[On the phone]

Please forgive me. People rushing in and out, this house grows more like a railway station every day.... Now, General, that was a deliberate compliment. [She laughs.] Ridiculous man.... Very well.... Good-bye. [She hangs up receiver.] My God! ten for dreariness!

Please forgive me. People rushing in and out, this house feels more like a train station every day.... Now, General, that was a deliberate compliment. [She laughs.] Ridiculous man.... Alright.... Goodbye. [She hangs up the receiver.] My God! ten for dreariness!

Helen

He’s not a bad old thing.

He’s not a bad person.

[31]

Florence

No, but he tries to be, and that’s what’s so frightful. [Arranging her hair before glass.] I look like Death.... Isn’t Tom a darling?

No, but he makes the effort, and that’s what’s so terrifying. [Fixing her hair in front of the mirror.] I look like Death.... Isn’t Tom just the sweetest?

Helen

Yes, dear, without being aggressively brilliant.

Yes, dear, without being overly brilliant.

Florence

I’m afraid, Helen, you’re getting rather bitter.

I’m sorry, Helen, but you seem to be getting pretty bitter.

Helen

Nonsense.

Florence

It’s silly to be sarcastic about Tom.

It’s pointless to be sarcastic about Tom.

Helen

It’s better than being maudlin about him.

It’s better than being sentimental about him.

Florence

I don’t know what you mean, dear. I’m not in the least maudlin, and never have been about anybody. I sometimes wish I could be—I’m too hard.

I don’t know what you mean, dear. I’m not emotional at all, and I’ve never been that way about anyone. I sometimes wish I could be—I’m just too tough.

Helen

[Taking a cigarette]

Smoking a cigarette

Tom will let you down.

Tom will disappoint you.

[32]

Florence

Let me down? Why ... how ... I don’t understand——

Let me down? Why ... how ... I don’t get it——

Helen

You’re more in love with him than he is with you.

You love him more than he loves you.

Florence

Don’t be so absurd, Helen.

Don't be so ridiculous, Helen.

Helen

It’s true.

It's true.

Florence

[Complacently]

Complacently

He adores me—worships me—he’s never seen anyone like me before in his life. I’m something strange ... exotic——

He adores me—worships me—he’s never met anyone like me in his life. I’m something unusual ... exotic——

Helen

You’re more in love with him than he is with you.

You love him more than he loves you.

Florence

You’re getting on my nerves to-day, Helen.

You’re really getting on my nerves today, Helen.

Helen

You do see that I’m right, don’t you?

You see that I’m right, don’t you?

Florence

If you knew some of the things he’s said to me.

If you knew some of the things he's told me.

[33]

Helen

I can guess them.

I can figure them out.

Florence

That boy was utterly unawakened until he met me.

That boy was completely oblivious until he met me.

Helen

He’s very young.

He’s really young.

Florence

I’ve taught him—everything.

I’ve taught him everything.

Helen

Or nothing.

Florence

Helen, I believe you’re jealous.

Helen, I think you're jealous.

Helen

Don’t be a fool.

Don’t be stupid.

Florence

I wish I hadn’t this fatal knack of seeing through people.

I wish I didn’t have this annoying ability to see right through people.

Helen

How’s David?

How's David doing?

Florence

I don’t know. He ought to be home soon.

I don't know. He should be home soon.

[34]

Helen

Doesn’t he ever suspect anything?

Doesn't he ever suspect anything?

Florence

Of course not—he adores me.

Of course not—he loves me.

Helen

It seems so strange not to see——

Florence

I’m devoted to David—I’d do anything for him, anything in the world—but he’s grown old and I’ve kept young; it does muddle things up so. I can’t help having a temperament, can I?

I'm devoted to David—I’d do anything for him, anything in the world—but he’s gotten older and I’ve stayed young; it really complicates things. I can’t help having a temperament, can I?

Helen

Temperament.... No.

Temperament... Nope.

Florence

David’s always loved me and never understood me—you see, I’m such an extraordinary mixture. I have so many sides to my character. I adore being at home and running the house and looking after David and Nicky——

David has always loved me and never really understood me—you see, I'm such an extraordinary mix. I have so many sides to my personality. I love being at home, managing the household, and taking care of David and Nicky—

Helen

You don’t exactly overdo it.

You don't really overdo it.

[35]

Florence

Well, Nicky’s been away for such ages. Also, one must be in London for the season. You can’t expect me to bury myself in the country indefinitely. I shall be there practically all through the spring and summer.

Well, Nicky’s been gone for such a long time. Plus, you have to be in London for the season. You can’t expect me to isolate myself in the countryside forever. I’ll be there pretty much all spring and summer.

Helen

Lovely tennis parties and cricket weeks and things——

Lovely tennis parties, cricket weeks, and stuff——

Florence

Certainly.

Sure thing.

Helen

[Kissing her]

[Making out with her]

You’re a divine creature, Florence.

You're a goddess, Florence.

Florence

[Basking]

Chilling

Am I? [The telephone rings.] Hallo!... Yes—speaking. [To Helen in a whisper.] It’s Inez Zulieta. I never went to her recital.... Inez darling, I never recognized your voice.... Didn’t you get my note?... It was absolutely true, I was in agony.... Inez, don’t be angry. If you only knew how I longed for the sound of your wonderful, wonderful voice.... Darling.... Inez, don’t be[36] so cruel.... To-morrow, then. [She hangs up receiver.] I do wish Inez wasn’t so persistent.

Am I? [The telephone rings.] Hello!... Yes—I'm speaking. [To Helen in a whisper.] It’s Inez Zulieta. I didn’t go to her recital.... Inez, darling, I didn’t recognize your voice.... Didn’t you get my note?... It was completely honest, I was in agony.... Inez, please don’t be mad. If you only knew how much I longed to hear your amazing, amazing voice.... Darling.... Inez, don’t be [36] so harsh.... Tomorrow, then. [She hangs up the receiver.] I really wish Inez wasn’t so insistent.

Helen

You never stop encouraging her.

You always encourage her.

Florence

Oh, Helen, I’m so tired of everyone.

Oh, Helen, I’m so done with everyone.

Helen

Except Tom?

Except for Tom?

Florence

Yes, except Tom; he’s such a darling.

Yes, except for Tom; he's such a sweetheart.

Helen

How do you think he and Nicky will get on?

How do you think he and Nicky will get along?

Florence

Marvelously—Tom loves music.

Tom loves music.

Helen

He says he does.

Florence

My dear, I took him to that Russian thing the other day and he sat entranced from beginning to end.

My dear, I took him to that Russian thing the other day, and he was captivated from start to finish.

[37]

Helen

Poor Nicky!

Florence

Why do you say that?

Why do you think that?

Helen

Because I sometimes feel it.

Because I sometimes feel that.

Florence

[Suddenly furious]

Furiously angry

Oh, I wonder why we’re such friends—we’re so opposite—you don’t understand me a bit. I used to think you did, but you’ve been different lately—unsympathetic.

Oh, I wonder why we're such good friends—we're so opposite—you don't get me at all. I used to think you did, but you've been different lately—unsupportive.

Helen

No, I haven’t.

No, I haven't.

Florence

Yes, you have—over Tom—I believe you’re in love with him yourself.

Yes, you have—over Tom—I think you’re in love with him too.

Helen

[Smiling]

No—it isn’t that.

No—that's not it.

Florence

Anyhow, you can’t bear him being in love with me.

Anyways, you can't stand him being in love with me.

[38]

Helen

I don’t think he is—really. I quite realize that he was very violently infatuated, but that is wearing off a bit now. I’m beginning to see him as he is....

I don’t think he really is. I understand that he was extremely infatuated, but that’s fading a bit now. I’m starting to see him for who he truly is....

Florence

No, no, it’s not true—you don’t understand——

No, no, that’s not true—you don’t get it——

Helen

We are friends, Florence, though we’re so “opposite.” Do you really know the truth—inside you? Or is all this shrill vanity real?

We are friends, Florence, even though we’re so “opposite.” Do you truly know the truth—deep down? Or is all this loud vanity genuine?

Florence

What’s the matter with you?

What's wrong with you?

Helen

You’re ten years older than I am, but when I’m your age I shall be twenty years older than you.

You’re ten years older than me, but when I’m your age, I’ll be twenty years older than you.

Florence

Darling, how deliciously involved—what can you mean by that?

Darling, how delightfully complicated—what do you mean by that?

Helen

I mean, I think it’s silly not to grow old when the time comes.

I mean, I think it’s silly to avoid getting older when it’s time.

[She rises and goes towards door.]

[She gets up and walks towards the door.]

[39]

Florence

[Outraged]

Furious

Helen! [There is suddenly heard a violent knocking at the front door.] What on earth is that?

Helen! [Suddenly, there’s a loud banging at the front door.] What on earth is that?

[There is a noise outside, then the door bursts open and Nicky enters. He is extremely well-dressed in traveling clothes. He is tall and pale, with thin, nervous hands.]

[There's a noise outside, then the door swings open and Nicky walks in. He's dressed sharply in travel attire. He is tall and pale, with slender, anxious hands.]

Florence

Nicky!

Nicky

Mother!

Mom!

[He embraces her.]

He hugs her.

Florence

But I’d no idea—I thought you were coming to-morrow.

But I had no idea—I thought you were coming tomorrow.

Nicky

No, to-day—I wrote to you.

No, today—I wrote to you.

Florence

I’m terribly, terribly excited.

I’m super excited.

Nicky

Helen, dear, how are you?

Helen, darling, how are you?

[He kisses her.]

He kisses her.

[40]

Helen

Splendid, Nicky.

Awesome, Nicky.

Florence

I can’t get over you arriving like this.... I never realized——

I can't believe you showed up like this.... I never realized——

Nicky

Silly ... you’re looking awfully well.

Silly ... you look really good.

Florence

Am I?

Nicky

Wonderful, as usual.

Awesome, as always.

Florence

I was talking to George Morrison only last Thursday——

I was talking to George Morrison just last Thursday——

Nicky

The man who wrote that fearful book?

The guy who wrote that scary book?

Florence

It isn’t a fearful book, it’s brilliant—anyhow, he absolutely refused to believe that I had a grown-up son.

It’s not a scary book; it’s brilliant—still, he totally refused to believe that I had an adult son.

Helen

My dears, I must fly.

I gotta go, my loves.

[41]

Nicky

Don’t go yet.

Don't leave yet.

Helen

I must—I’m hours late as it is.

I really have to go—I'm already hours late.

Nicky

Be a little later, then.

Be a bit late, then.

Florence

Remember, five-o’clock train on Friday.

Remember, 5 PM train on Friday.

Nicky

Oh, is she coming down to the house? Divine!

Oh, is she coming over to the house? Awesome!

Helen

Yes, if Florence is still speaking to me. Good-bye.

Yes, if Florence is still in touch with me. Goodbye.

[She goes out.]

She’s going out.

Nicky

Have you been having a scene?

Have you been causing a scene?

Florence

No, dear.

No, sweetheart.

Nicky

She’s a darling—Helen——

She’s a sweetheart—Helen——

[42]

Florence

Extremely stupid and tactless sometimes.

Very foolish and insensitive sometimes.

Nicky

It doesn’t feel as though I’d been away at all.

It doesn't seem like I've been gone at all.

Florence

I’ve missed you appallingly—we had such a short time together in Paris. Did you enjoy all my letters?

I’ve missed you so much—we had such a brief time together in Paris. Did you enjoy all my letters?

Nicky

I adored them—so did John Bagot. I used to read most of them aloud to him. He’s mad on you—saw your pictures in the Tatler, or something, and fell in love with it.

I loved them—so did John Bagot. I used to read most of them out loud to him. He’s crazy about you—saw your pictures in the Tatler or something, and fell in love with it.

Florence

Is he nice?

Is he friendly?

Nicky

He’s grand.

He's great.

Florence

We must all dine at the Embassy. When is he coming to England?

We all need to have dinner at the Embassy. When is he coming to England?

Nicky

Not until after Christmas.

[43]

Florence

You must see my new photographs; they’re wonderful.

You have to check out my new photos; they’re amazing.

[She takes large packet from desk.]

[She takes a large packet from the desk.]

Nicky

It’s heavenly—being back.

It's heavenly to be back.

Florence

Look.

Check this out.

Nicky

I don’t like that one.

I don’t like this one.

Florence

How can you, Nicky! Tom likes that one best of all.

How can you, Nicky! Tom likes that one the most out of all.

Nicky

Who’s Tom?

Who's Tom?

Florence

Tom Veryan—he’s a dear; you’ll like him frightfully—you know—the very nicest type of Englishman.

Tom Veryan—he’s a sweetheart; you’ll really like him—you know—the absolute best kind of Englishman.

Nicky

I hate the very nicest type of Englishman.

I really dislike the nicest kind of Englishman.

[44]

Florence

Don’t be tiresome, Nicky; he’s only twenty-four, and they all think so well of him——

Don’t be a pain, Nicky; he’s only twenty-four, and everyone thinks so highly of him——

Nicky

All who?

Who all?

Florence

All his officers and people; he’s in the Brigade.

All his officers and team; he's in the Brigade.

Nicky

[Holding photograph away from him and scrutinizing it through half-closed eyes]

[Holding the photograph away from him and examining it through squinted eyes]

Now that one really is enchanting—they’ve got your hair beautifully. Oh, yes, my dear, it’s perfect——

Florence

[Complacently]

Complacently

It is good. She’s sweet—Madame Henderson, she simply won’t hear of my paying for these—she says it’s quite sufficient to be allowed to exhibit them in the window.

It is good. She’s sweet—Madame Henderson, she just won’t let me pay for these—she says it’s more than enough to be allowed to display them in the window.

Nicky

Is anyone dining this evening?

Is anyone eating dinner tonight?

Florence

No. Oh, dear! I’d forgotten—I’m dining out with Tom.

No. Oh no! I totally forgot—I’m going out to eat with Tom.

[45]

Nicky

Oh—I see.

Got it.

Florence

Your first night home, too—how perfectly fiendish. What a fool I am to have muddled it up.

Your first night back home—how perfectly wicked. What an idiot I am to have messed it up.

Nicky

It doesn’t matter, darling.

It doesn't matter, babe.

Florence

Oh, but it does. I wonder if we could get another seat——

Nicky

Seat? What for?

Seat? For what?

Florence

We’re going to the first night of “The New Elaine.” It’s going to be marvelous.

We’re going to the opening night of “The New Elaine.” It’s going to be amazing.

Nicky

Who’s in it?

Who’s involved?

Florence

Nora Dean and Selwyn Steele——

Nora Dean and Selwyn Steele—

Nicky

Oh, God!

Oh my God!

[46]

Florence

It’s silly of you always to jeer at Selwyn Steele. He’ s a brilliant actor, if only he could get away from his wife....

It’s foolish of you always to mock Selwyn Steele. He’s an amazing actor, if only he could escape from his wife....

Nicky

I couldn’t bear him to-night, anyway; I’m tired. Is father home yet?

I couldn't stand him tonight, anyway; I'm tired. Is Dad home yet?

Florence

No, I don’t think so. Oh, I do feel such a beast——

No, I don’t think so. Oh, I do feel like such a beast——

Nicky

Don’t be silly—honestly, I don’t mind a bit.

Don’t be ridiculous—seriously, I don’t mind at all.

Florence

I know—you have a nice quiet dinner here and join us at the Embassy afterwards.

I get it—you have a nice, quiet dinner here and then come hang out with us at the Embassy afterwards.

Nicky

Is it a late night?

Florence

Yes, they play the most heavenly tune there now—Tom always makes them do it over and over again—I’ll put it on——

Yes, they play the most beautiful song there now—Tom always makes them play it repeatedly—I’ll put it on——

[She goes to the gramophone.]

She goes to the turntable.

[47]

Nicky

How’s Iris?

How's Iris doing?

Florence

My dear, don’t speak of her.

My dear, don't talk about her.

Nicky

Why—what’s she done?

Why—what has she done?

Florence

She’s been absolutely foul.

She's been really unpleasant.

Nicky

In what way?

How so?

Florence

Every way—I never trusted her, luckily—Thank God I’ve got instincts about people—listen, isn’t this marvelous—She said the most filthy things to Gloria Craig about me—I always knew she was insanely jealous, but there are limits. I loathe being at people’s beck and call.... Come and dance.

Every way—I never trusted her, luckily—Thank God I have instincts about people—listen, isn’t this amazing—She said the most disgusting things to Gloria Craig about me—I always knew she was incredibly jealous, but there are limits. I hate being at people’s beck and call.... Come and dance.

Nicky

[As they dance]

[While they dance]

I’m sorry you’ve rowed—I rather liked her——

I’m sorry you’ve struggled—I actually liked her——

[48]

Florence

Only because she kept on saying how wonderful you were.... She doesn’t know a thing about music really.

Only because she keeps saying how amazing you are.... She doesn’t know anything about music, really.

Nicky

Oh yes, she does.

Oh yes, she definitely does.

Florence

It’s merely bluff—all that appreciation. Darling, how oddly you’re dancing.

It’s just a sham—all that praise. Sweetheart, how strangely you’re dancing.

Nicky

It’s probably because we haven’t danced together for so long....

It’s probably because we haven’t danced together in such a long time...

Florence

Anyhow, now she’s gone off to Monte Carlo with Violet Fenchurch—silly fool——

Anyhow, now she’s off to Monte Carlo with Violet Fenchurch—what a silly fool—

[Enter David Lancaster. He is an elderly gray-haired pleasant man.]

[Enter David Lancaster. He is a friendly elderly man with gray hair.]

David

[Delighted]

Excited

Nicky—my boy——

Nicky—my son—

Nicky

[Kissing him]

Kissing him

Hallo, father——

Hi, Dad——

[49]

David

I thought—Florence said—to-morrow——

I thought—Florence said—tomorrow—

Nicky

Mother muddled it up.

Mom mixed it up.

David

You look rather tired.

You look pretty tired.

Nicky

I’m splendid. How’s everything?

I'm great. How's everything?

David

The same as usual. I’ve made lots of improvements down at the house.

The same as always. I’ve made a lot of updates at the house.

Florence

David thinks and talks of nothing but the farm——

David thinks and talks about nothing but the farm——

David

It’s beginning to pay a bit—Peterson’s an awfully good man.

It’s starting to pay off a little—Peterson’s a really good guy.

Nicky

We’ll make a grand tour of it on Sunday.

We’ll take a big trip on Sunday.

David

Have you enjoyed yourself in Paris?

Have you had a good time in Paris?

[50]

Nicky

Oh yes, rather—it’s a splendid place to work.

Oh yes, definitely—it’s a great place to work.

David

It never struck me that way quite, but still——

It never really hit me like that, but still——

Florence

Sophie de Molignac said Nicky’s playing had improved wonderfully.

Sophie de Molignac said Nicky’s playing had improved a lot.

David

I’m so glad, Nicky.

I'm really happy, Nicky.

Nicky

I’ve been doing some Spanish stuff lately.

David

I wish I knew more about it.

Nicky

Never mind, father.

Never mind, Dad.

David

Come to my room and talk. I can’t bear that thing——

Come to my room and let's talk. I can't stand that thing——

Florence

Father’s such a beast; he never will dance with me.

Father’s such a tough guy; he never dances with me.

[51]

David

Is the Evening News anywhere about?

Is the Evening News around?

Nicky

Yes, here.

Yep, here.

[He gives it to him.]

He hands it to him.

David

I’m so glad you’re home again, Nicky—don’t forget—come and talk....

I’m really glad you’re back home, Nicky—don’t forget—come and chat....

[He goes out.]

He goes out.

Florence

David’s so much happier in the country.

David's way happier in the country.

Nicky

Why on earth doesn’t he retire and live at the house for good?

Why doesn't he just retire and live at the house for good?

Florence

Work has become such a habit with him—he’s always hated giving up habits.

Work has become such a routine for him—he’s always disliked breaking habits.

Nicky

Mother—I’ve got something rather important to tell you.

Mother—I have something pretty important to tell you.

Florence

Darling, how thrilling! What is it?

Darling, how exciting! What is it?

[52]

Nicky

I am engaged to be married.

I'm engaged.

Florence

What!

Nicky

Practically—as much as one can be these days.

Florence

Nicky!

Nicky

Don’t look so stricken.

Don't look so shocked.

Florence

But, Nicky—I never sort of visualized you being engaged, or married, or anything.

But, Nicky—I never really pictured you being engaged, or married, or anything like that.

Nicky

Why not?

Florence

You’re not old enough.

You're too young.

Nicky

I’m twenty-four.

I'm 24.

Florence

You don’t look it.... Thank God!

You don't seem like it.... Thank goodness!

[53]

Nicky

What do you really feel about it, mother?

What do you truly think about it, mom?

Florence

Darling—I hardly know what to say—you’ve sprung it on me so suddenly. Who is she?

Darling—I barely know what to say—you’ve caught me off guard with this. Who is she?

Nicky

A girl called Bunty Mainwaring.

A girl named Bunty Mainwaring.

Florence

What a silly name!

What a goofy name!

Nicky

It isn’t at all—it’s very attractive.

It's super appealing.

Florence

Is she an actress, or a student, or what?

Is she an actress, a student, or what?

Nicky

Neither—she is what is technically termed a “lady.”

Neither—she is what is technically called a “lady.”

Florence

Do you think she’ll like me?

Do you think she will like me?

Nicky

She went mad over your photograph.

She went crazy over your photo.

[54]

Florence

Which one?

Nicky

The “looking out of the window” one.

Florence

That really is one of the best I’ve ever had done.

That’s definitely one of the best I’ve ever had.

Nicky

She said you had the face of an heroic little boy.

She said you had the face of a brave little boy.

Florence

What a divine thing to say!

What a perfect thing to say!

[She glances at herself in the glass.]

She looks at herself in the mirror.

Nicky

She does say divine things—she’s supremely intelligent.

She says amazing things—she’s incredibly smart.

Florence

Is she in Paris?

Nicky

No, she came over with me to-day.

No, she came over with me today.

Florence

Where does she live?

Where does she stay?

[55]

Nicky

Just round the corner in Carbury Square.

Just around the corner in Carbury Square.

Florence

Near the Churchingtons.

Nicky

It’s her mother’s house, but her mother’s away just now, so I asked her to change quickly and come on here.

It’s her mom’s house, but her mom’s gone right now, so I asked her to get dressed quickly and come over.

Florence

Nicky!

Nicky

Why not? I wanted you to see her as soon as possible.

Why not? I wanted you to see her as soon as you could.

Florence

[Realizing parental responsibility]

[Understanding parental responsibility]

It’s an awful shock, you know.

It’s a terrible shock, you know.

Nicky

Nonsense, mother—you’re quite excited about it, really.

Nonsense, Mom—you’re really excited about it.

Florence

[With determination]

With grit

I shall be charming to her.

I will be charming to her.

[56]

Nicky

Then she’ll adore you at once—probably too much, and I shall be jealous.

Then she’ll love you right away—probably too much, and I’ll be jealous.

Florence

You’d better both dine here together and come on to the Embassy. How old is she?

You should both eat here together and head over to the Embassy. How old is she?

Nicky

Twenty-three.

Florence

What does she do?

What's her job?

Nicky

Nothing much—she writes things occasionally.

Not much—she writes sometimes.

Florence

Where did you meet her?

Nicky

First of all at a party at Olive Lloyd-Kennedy’s.

First of all, at a party at Olive Lloyd-Kennedy’s.

Florence

I can’t bear Olive Lloyd-Kennedy—she’s a cat.

I can't stand Olive Lloyd-Kennedy—she's such a brat.

Nicky

Then I met her again at Marion Fawcett’s—a frightful sort of reception affair—she was staying with her.

Then I ran into her again at Marion Fawcett's—a terrible kind of reception event—she was staying with her.

[57]

Florence

She seems to move exclusively with my worst enemies. Is she pretty?

She only hangs out with my biggest enemies. Is she cute?

Nicky

I don’t know—I haven’t really noticed.

I don’t know—I haven’t really paid attention.

Florence

[With a touch of real feeling]

With a touch of real feeling

Nicky darling, I do feel so extraordinary about it.

Nicky, sweetheart, I really feel amazing about it.

Nicky

Why extraordinary?

Why is it extraordinary?

Florence

It’s a milestone, isn’t it—you being engaged? A definite milestone? [She catches sight of herself.] Look at my nose. [She powders it.] I do hope she’ll like me—I must go and dress now; Tom is fetching me half-past seven. Bring her to my room when she comes.

It’s a big deal, right—you’re engaged? A definite milestone? [She catches sight of herself.] Look at my nose. [She powders it.] I really hope she’ll like me—I should go get ready now; Tom is picking me up at 7:30. Bring her to my room when she arrives.

Nicky

Don’t go for a minute.

Don't leave for a minute.

Florence

I must, really—Tom will be furious.

I really have to—Tom will be so mad.

Nicky

Oh, damn Tom!

Oh, wow Tom!

[58]

Florence

Oh, Nicky, don’t go and take one of your tiresome prejudices against him.

Oh, Nicky, don’t go and hold one of your annoying biases against him.

Nicky

[Smiling]

[Grinning]

All right, I’ll try not to.

Okay, I won't.

Florence

He’s frightfully good-looking.

He’s extremely good-looking.

Nicky

Oh!

Florence

And he adores music.

And he loves music.

Nicky

Now, then, mother——

Now, then, Mom——

Florence

He does, honestly.

He really does.

Nicky

Good.

Florence

And he dances beautifully.

And he dances amazingly.

[59]

Nicky

I shall never stop dancing with him.

I will never stop dancing with him.

Florence

And he’s so good at games.

And he’s really good at games.

Nicky

He sounds adorable.

He sounds cute.

Florence

Of course, he needs knowing.

He needs to know, of course.

Nicky

So do I.

Same here.

Florence

You will make an effort, though, darling, won’t you? For my sake!

You will try, right, darling? For my sake!

Nicky

Yes, mother.

Sure, mom.

Florence

And we’ll all have a divine time together, Tom and me and you and what’s her name——

And we’ll all have an amazing time together, Tom, you, and what's her name—

Nicky

Bunty.

[60]

Florence

Oh yes, of course, Bunty.

Sure thing, Bunty.

[Front door bell rings.]

[Doorbell rings.]

Nicky

This is her, I expect.

This must be her, I guess.

Florence

Do you feel wonderful about her?

Do you feel great about her?

Nicky

Yes.

Florence

It is thrilling, isn’t it—being in love?

Isn't it exciting to be in love?

Nicky

[Frowning a little]

Frowning slightly

Yes.

Yeah.

Florence

Your father was right—you look awfully tired, Nicky.

Your dad was right—you look really tired, Nicky.

Nicky

What nonsense! I feel grand.

What nonsense! I'm feeling great.

[Enter Preston.]

[61]

Preston

[Announcing]

[Announcement]

Miss Mainwaring.

Ms. Mainwaring.

[Bunty comes in, very self-assured and well-dressed. She is more attractive than pretty in a boyish sort of way.]

[Bunty walks in, exuding confidence and dressed stylishly. She looks more appealing than beautiful in a slightly boyish manner.]

[Preston goes out.]

[Preston is going out.]

Nicky

Bunty. You have been quick.

Bunty. You've been fast.

Bunty

I’ve simply flown.

I just flew.

Nicky

Bunty ... here is mother....

Bunty, here's Mom...

Bunty

Oh!

Florence

[Taking both her hands]

Holding both her hands

This is frightfully exciting, isn’t it?

This is super exciting, isn’t it?

[She kisses her.]

She kisses her.

Nicky

I’ve told her.

I’ve let her know.

[62]

Bunty

Are you furious?

Are you angry?

Florence

Of course not. Why should I be? ’Specially now.

Of course not. Why should I be? Especially now.

Bunty

It’s absolutely incredible, you being Nicky’s mother.

It’s amazing that you’re Nicky’s mom.

Florence

Am I anything like you thought I’d be?

Am I anything like what you expected?

Bunty

Yes, exactly—but I couldn’t believe it until I saw you.

Yes, exactly—but I couldn't believe it until I saw you.

Florence

Take off that perfectly divine cloak and have a cigarette. I’ve got to rush and dress now, because I’m terribly late, but you’re dining here with Nicky and joining Tom Veryan and me at the Embassy afterwards.

Take off that amazing cloak and have a cigarette. I need to hurry and get dressed now because I'm really late, but you're having dinner here with Nicky and then joining Tom Veryan and me at the Embassy afterwards.

Bunty

Tom Veryan?...

Tom Veryan?

Florence

Yes. Do you know him?

[63]

Bunty

I did when I was a child—if it’s the same one.

I did when I was a kid—if it’s the same one.

[She takes off her cloak.]

She removes her cloak.

Florence

[Effusively]

Enthusiastically

Nicky—I don’t feel extraordinary about it any more—I’m delighted.

Nicky—I don’t feel special about it anymore—I’m thrilled.

Nicky

Angel.

Florence

Perhaps Bunty would like to come down to the house on Friday for the week-end?

Maybe Bunty would like to come over to the house on Friday for the weekend?

Nicky

Oh yes! Marvelous.

Oh yes! Amazing.

Bunty

It’s awfully sweet of you, Mrs. Lancaster.

It’s really kind of you, Mrs. Lancaster.

Florence

You must call me Florence; I can’t bear Mrs. Lancaster. I must fly; Tom will be here at any moment—that’s him on the desk.

You have to call me Florence; I can’t stand Mrs. Lancaster. I need to go; Tom will be here any minute—that’s him on the desk.

[64]

Bunty

[Going over to photograph]

Taking photos over there

Yes—it is the same one.

Yep—it's the same one.

Florence

How too divine!...

How divine!

[Telephone rings.]

[Phone rings.]

Hallo!... Yes, speaking!... Elsa darling, how are you?... What?... To-night?... How perfectly heavenly! Of course, I’d adore it.... Listen. Nicky’s just back from Paris. Can he come, too, with Bunty Mainwaring?... Yes, he’s here.... See you to-night, dear....

Hallo!... Yes, speaking!... Elsa, sweetheart, how are you?... What?... Tonight?... That sounds amazing! Of course, I’d love it.... Listen. Nicky just got back from Paris. Can he come, too, with Bunty Mainwaring?... Yeah, he’s here.... See you tonight, dear....

Here, Nicky, talk to Elsa....

Here, Nicky, chat with Elsa...

[She snatches up her hand-bag and fur coat and kisses Bunty effusively.]

[She grabs her handbag and fur coat and kisses Bunty enthusiastically.]

I’m so glad about you and Nicky—It’s too wonderful.

I’m so happy for you and Nicky—It’s amazing.

[She rushes out.]

She hurries out.

Nicky

[At telephone]

[On the phone]

Hallo, Elsa.... I’d no idea you were in London. I’m terribly thrilled. My dear, you haven’t.... All those lovely tunes you played to me in Paris?... How amazing! I am glad.... Have you done anything with that Tango?... You must play it to-night; I want Bunty to hear it.... It is[65] perfect, isn’t it?... Good-bye, dear. [He hangs up the receiver.] Bunty.

Hello, Elsa.... I had no idea you were in London. I’m so excited. My dear, you haven't.... All those beautiful tunes you played for me in Paris?... How amazing! I really am glad.... Have you done anything with that Tango?... You have to play it tonight; I want Bunty to hear it.... It is[65] perfect, isn’t it?... Goodbye, dear. [He hangs up the receiver.] Bunty.

Bunty

What?

What’s up?

Nicky

I’m terribly happy.

I’m super happy.

Bunty

So am I.

Same here.

Nicky

Do you remember how we planned all this—coming home together—and breaking it to mother—and everything?

Do you remember how we planned everything—coming home together—and telling mom—and all that?

Bunty

Rather.

Nicky

Do you really like her?

Do you actually like her?

Bunty

I adore her—she’s a perfect angel.

I love her—she’s an absolute angel.

Nicky

I told her your “heroic little boy” line; she loved it.

[66]

Bunty

It’s true, you know—rather defiant too—laughing at Fate.

It’s true, you know—kind of bold too—laughing at Fate.

Nicky

Doesn’t Paris seem ages away now?

Doesn’t Paris feel like it was forever ago?

Bunty

A different life altogether.

A completely different life.

Nicky

That nasty little bit of Channel is such an enormous gulf, really. Did you put that dress on on purpose.

That nasty little part of the Channel is such a huge gap, really. Did you put that dress on intentionally?

Bunty

[Smiling]

Perhaps.

Maybe.

Nicky

You are a devil.

You're a devil.

Bunty

It’s such fun being reminded of things.

It’s so much fun to be reminded of things.

Nicky

And such agony, too.

And such pain, too.

Bunty

Nicky darling—why agony?

Nicky, sweetheart—what's the pain?

[67]

Nicky

It’s always agony being in love, and I started loving you in that dress.

It’s always painful being in love, and I started loving you in that dress.

Bunty

Did you?

Nicky

Don’t pretend you didn’t know.

Don’t act like you didn’t know.

Bunty

I suppose one always knows—really.

I guess you always know—truly.

Nicky

From the very first moment.

From the very start.

Bunty

Yes.

Nicky

A sort of spark.

A kind of spark.

Bunty

Your playing helped a lot.

Your gameplay really made a difference.

Nicky

I meant it to.

I intended to.

Bunty

Calculating pig.

[68]

Nicky

Have a cigarette?

Got a cigarette?

Bunty

All right.

All good.

[He hands her box, and she takes one.]

[i]He hands her a box, and she takes one.[/i]

Nicky

[Lighting her cigarette]

[Lighting her vape]

I wish we weren’t so free.

I wish we weren't so free.

Bunty

Why? What do you mean?

Nicky

I feel I should like to elope, or something violently romantic like that.

I feel like I want to run away and get married, or do something really romantic like that.

Bunty

[Laughing]

[Laughing]

There wouldn’t be much point in it now, would there?

Nicky

Perhaps not. How much do you love me?

Bunty

I don’t know.

I’m not sure.

[69]

Nicky

It’s fun analyzing one’s emotions.

It’s fun to analyze emotions.

Bunty

Marvelous fun.

Amazing fun.

Nicky

And a comfort, too, when things go wrong—but it kills sentiment stone dead.

And it's also comforting when things go wrong—but it totally wipes out any sentiment.

Bunty

A good job, too.

A nice job, too.

Nicky

You’re frightfully hard, Bunty.

You're really tough, Bunty.

Bunty

Am I?

Nicky

Much harder than me—really.

Way harder than me—seriously.

Bunty

You’ve got so much hysteria.

You've got so much drama.

Nicky

I can’t help it.

I can't stop it.

Bunty

Of course not; it’s your temperament. You burst out suddenly.

Of course not; it’s just your personality. You react suddenly.

[70]

Nicky

Not so badly as I used to.

Not as badly as I used to.

Bunty

You’re growing older.

You're getting older.

Nicky

God, yes! Isn’t it foul?

God, yes! Isn't it terrible?

Bunty

Hell, my dear.

Hey there, my dear.

Nicky

It’s funny how mother’s generation always longed to be old when they were young, and we strain every nerve to keep young.

It’s funny how our mothers' generation always wanted to be older when they were young, and we do everything we can to stay young.

Bunty

That’s because we see what’s coming so much more clearly.

That’s because we can see what’s coming way more clearly.

Nicky

Wouldn’t it be terrible to know exactly?—I feel frightened sometimes.

Wouldn't it be awful to know exactly?—I get scared sometimes.

Bunty

Why?

Why not?

Nicky

We’re all so hectic and nervy....

We’re all so busy and anxious...

[71]

Bunty

It doesn’t matter—it probably only means we shan’t live so long....

It doesn’t matter—it probably just means we won’t live as long....

Nicky

[Suddenly]

[Out of nowhere]

Shut up—shut up....

Be quiet—be quiet....

[Enter Preston.]

Preston

[Announcing]

[Announcement]

Mr. Veryan.

[Enter Tom. Nicky greets him and shakes hands. Exit Preston.]

[Enter Tom. Nicky gives him a friendly greeting and shakes his hand. Exit Preston.]

Nicky

How are you? I’m Nicky—I came over to-day instead of to-morrow....

How are you? I’m Nicky—I came over today instead of tomorrow....

Tom

Oh!

Nicky

Do you know Bunty Mainwaring?

Tom

Bunty—I say—I am glad.

Bunty—I'm glad.

[They shake hands warmly.]

They greet each other warmly.

[72]

Nicky

We’d better have some cocktails.

Let's grab some cocktails.

[He goes to the door and shouts.]

[He walks to the door and yells.]

Preston ... bring us some cocktails....

Tom

This is jolly. I didn’t know what had become of you.

This is great. I didn’t know what happened to you.

Bunty

I’ve been living in Paris a good deal.

I’ve been living in Paris quite a lot.

Tom

How many years ago is it since we?...

How many years ago was it since we?...

Bunty

During the War. The last time I saw you you were at Sandhurst.

During the War. The last time I saw you, you were at Sandhurst.

Nicky

Such a pretty place.

Such a beautiful place.

Tom

You’ve hardly altered a bit—more grown up, of course.

You haven't changed much—just more grown up, of course.

Nicky

All this is most affecting.

This is really touching.

[73]

Tom

Bunty and I used to know each other awfully well.

Bunty and I used to know each other really well.

Nicky

What fun!

So much fun!

Bunty

[Warningly]

[Warning]

Nicky....

Nicky…

Nicky

But it is—it’s thrilling—there’s nothing so charming as a reunion.

But it is—it’s exciting—there’s nothing as lovely as a reunion.

Bunty

Nicky and I have been traveling all day.... Boats and trains get on his nerves....

Nicky and I have been traveling all day.... Boats and trains drive him crazy....

Nicky

When the cocktails come, tell Preston to bring mine to me in father’s room.

When the cocktails arrive, tell Preston to bring mine to me in Dad's room.

Bunty

Nicky, don’t be so silly.

Nicky, don’t be so ridiculous.

Nicky

Surely it’s not silly to want to talk to my aged father after a year’s debauch in Paris? I fail to see why you should have the monopoly of reunions.

Surely it’s not unreasonable to want to talk to my elderly father after a year of partying in Paris? I don’t understand why you should have exclusive rights to reunions.

[74]

Bunty

Well, don’t be long.

Well, don’t take too long.

Tom

Cheerio!

Bye!

Nicky

[Crossly]

[Annoyed]

Oh, God!

Oh my God!

[He goes out.]

He steps out.

Tom

What’s up?

What's up?

Bunty

These temperamental musicians.

These moody musicians.

Tom

Silly ass.

Silly fool.

Bunty

He isn’t really—he’s only jealous.

He's not really—he's just jealous.

Tom

Why ... is he?...

Why... is he...?

Bunty

We’re by way of being engaged.

We're sort of engaged.

[75]

Tom

What?

What’s up?

Bunty

Why not?

Tom

Are you ... are you in love with him?

Are you ... do you love him?

Bunty

[Lightly]

Lightweight

Yes—isn’t it damnable?

Yes—isn’t it terrible?

Tom

Good Lord!

Oh my God!

[He laughs.]

He chuckles.

Bunty

What are you laughing at?

What are you laughing about?

Tom

It seems so funny you being in love with that sort of chap.

It’s so funny that you’re in love with that kind of guy.

Bunty

What do you mean by “that sort of chap”?

What do you mean by "that kind of guy"?

Tom

Oh—I don’t know, that type seems so unlike you.

Oh—I don’t know, that kind seems so unlike you.

[76]

Bunty

Type?

What type?

Tom

Yes, you know—up in the air—effeminate.

Yes, you know—floating around—feminine.

Bunty

You’re more bucolic than you used to be, Tom.

You’re more down-to-earth than you used to be, Tom.

Tom

Here, I say....

[Enter Preston with cocktails.]

[Enter Preston with drinks.]

Bunty

Will you please take Mr. Nicky’s in to him in his father’s room?

Will you please take Mr. Nicky into his father's room?

Preston

Yes, miss.

Yes, ma'am.

Tom

Is Mrs. Lancaster nearly ready?

Is Mrs. Lancaster almost ready?

Preston

I think so, sir.

I believe so, sir.

Tom

Ask her to hurry. We shall be late.

Ask her to hurry up. We're going to be late.

[77]

Preston

Yes, sir.

Sure thing.

[He goes out.]

He steps out.

Bunty

I can laugh now.

[She does so.]

She does.

Tom

Why?

Bunty

I’ve just realized something.

I just realized something.

Tom

What?

What’s up?

Bunty

We shall meet again—over the week-end.

We will meet again—over the weekend.

Tom

Are you coming down to the house?

Are you coming over to the house?

Bunty

Yes.

Tom

That’s splendid. Come for a tramp Sunday morning and we’ll talk.

That sounds great. Come for a hike on Sunday morning and we’ll chat.

[78]

Bunty

What about?

What's it about?

Tom

Oh, lots of things—old times.

Oh, so many memories—nostalgia.

Bunty

[Lifting her cocktail]

[Raising her cocktail]

Old times, Tom.

Back in the day, Tom.

Tom

[Doing the same]

[Same thing]

Cheerio!

Goodbye!

Curtain

[79]

ACT II

Act II

[80-81]

ACT II

The scene is the hall of Mrs. Lancaster’s house, about forty miles from London.

The scene is the hallway of Mrs. Lancaster house, around forty miles from London.

When the curtain rises it is just after dinner on the Sunday of the week-end party—the gramophone is going and there is a continual buzz of conversation. Clara Hibbert, an emaciated soprano, is dancing with Tom Veryan, Helen with Pawnie, and Nicky with Bunty. Florence is seated on the club fender, talking intellectually with Bruce Fairlight, an earnest dramatist, the squalor of whose plays is much appreciated by those who live in comparative luxury.

When the curtain goes up, it's just after dinner on the Sunday of the weekend party—the gramophone is playing, and there's a constant buzz of conversation. Clara Hibbert, a thin soprano, is dancing with Tom Veryan, Helen with Pawnee, and Nicky with Bunty. Florence is sitting on the club fender, having an intellectual conversation with Bruce Fairlight, a serious playwright whose gritty dramas are widely appreciated by those living in relative comfort.

There must be a feeling of hectic amusement and noise, and the air black with cigarette smoke and superlatives. During the first part of the scene everyone must appear to be talking at once, but the actual lines spoken while dancing must be timed to reach the audience as the speakers pass near the footlights. This scene will probably be exceedingly difficult to produce, but is absolutely indispensable.

There should be a sense of chaotic fun and noise, with the air thick with cigarette smoke and exaggerations. In the beginning, everyone should seem to be talking at the same time, but the actual dialogue spoken while dancing needs to be coordinated to reach the audience as the speakers come close to the front of the stage. This scene will likely be very challenging to pull off, but it’s absolutely essential.

Helen

It’s much too fast, Nicky.

It's way too fast, Nicky.

[82]

Tom

Do slow down a bit.

Please slow down a bit.

Nicky

It’s the pace that’s marked on the record.

It’s the tempo that’s noted on the record.

Pawnie

I’ve never danced well since the War, I don’t know why.

I haven’t danced well since the War; I’m not sure why.

Florence

But your last act was so strong, when she came in half mad with fright and described everything minutely.

But your last action was so powerful when she walked in, nearly insane with fear, and described everything in detail.

Bruce

I try to write as honestly as possible.

I try to write as honestly as I can.

Clara

I gave her three for manners, but seven for charm, because I had to be a little nice!

I gave her a 3 for manners, but a 7 for charm, because I had to be a little nice!

Tom

I thought she was rather a decent sort.

I thought she was a pretty decent person.

Bunty

No, but really, Nicky, his technique completely annihilated his inspiration.

No, but seriously, Nicky, his technique totally crushed his inspiration.

[83]

Nicky

Not with Debussy and Ravel, with the older masters, yes; but he’s probably tired of them.

Not with Debussy and Ravel, but with the older masters, yes; but he’s probably tired of them.

Bunty

That’s so stupid, I think.

That's so dumb, I think.

Helen

My dear, it was the most “chic” thing you’ve ever seen, but unfortunately the wrong color.

My dear, it was the most stylish thing you’ve ever seen, but unfortunately the wrong color.

Pawnie

Marion Ferris had that Poiret model copied in the most frightful blue!

Marion Ferris had that Poiret model made in the most horrible shade of blue!

Clara

I believe my shoe’s coming off.

I think my shoe is coming off.

Tom

Shall we stop?

Should we stop?

Clara

No, it’s all right.

No, it's fine.

Florence

I wonder if you could gouge this cigarette-end out of the holder for me?

I wonder if you could take this cigarette butt out of the holder for me?

[84]

Bruce

I’ll try. [He does so.] I always smoke a pipe when I’m working.

I’ll give it a shot. [He does that.] I always smoke a pipe when I’m working.

Florence

How soothing!

So calming!

Bunty

I suppose one can never really judge properly from a recital.

I guess you can never truly judge from a performance.

Nicky

Not with him, because he’s not dramatic enough.

Bunty

Dramatic pianists make me uncomfortable.

Dramatic pianists make me uneasy.

Helen

Pawnie, your tongue grows more venomous every day.

Pawnie, your words are becoming more poisonous every day.

Pawnie

[Giggling]

Laughing

Well, I had to say something—anyhow, it was true.

Well, I had to say something—anyway, it was true.

Helen

Especially about her ankles.

[85]

Pawnie

My dear, yes!

Sure thing!

[They both laugh.]

They both laugh.

[The record comes to an end, and Nicky begins to change it. Everyone talks and laughs.]

[The record ends, and Nicky starts to change it. Everyone is talking and laughing.]

Clara

You must come next Sunday week.

You have to come next Sunday.

Tom

Thanks awfully, I’d love to.

Thanks so much, I’d love to.

Clara

I’m only singing ballads, but you know what Sunday concerts are.

I’m just singing ballads, but you know how Sunday concerts are.

Tom

Oh yes, rather.

Oh yes, for sure.

Clara

[To Nicky]

What’s on the other side?

Nicky

“You’ve got the cutest ears and eyes and nose.”

“You have the cutest ears, eyes, and nose.”

Pawnie

Do put on “Spoony Moon in Upper Carolina.”

Do play "Spoony Moon in Upper Carolina."

[86]

Helen

No, don’t put it on, Nicky; play it yourself; you always make the gramophone go too quickly.

No, don’t put it on, Nicky; play it yourself; you always make the record player go too fast.

Bunty

Yes, go on, Nicky.

Sure, go ahead, Nicky.

Florence

[Refusing Bruce’s offer of a cigarette]

[Declining Bruce’s cigarette offer]

No, thanks, not another—I’m dancing with Tom.

No, thanks, not another one—I’m dancing with Tom.

Bunty

[Gayly]

Joyfully

Missing one, Tom.

Tom

Righto!

Alright!

[Nicky commences to play a fox-trot.]

[Nicky starts playing a fox-trot.]

Bunty

[Dragging Bruce to his feet]

[Helping Bruce up]

Come on, Mr. Fairlight, don’t overdo the serious dramatist stunt!

Come on, Mr. Fairlight, don’t take the serious dramatist act too far!

Bruce

I warn you I’m no good.

I’m telling you, I’m not great.

[He dances with her, and confirms the truth of his warning. Clara Hibbert squashes down on[87] the piano-seat next to Nicky and endeavors with one finger in the treble to follow the tune he is playing. Helen and Pawnie stand right down close to the footlights, smoking and talking; their backs are half turned to the audience, but their remarks must be perfectly audible.]

[He dances with her, confirming the truth of his warning. Clara Hibbert sits down on the piano bench next to Nicky and tries to follow the tune he's playing with one finger in the treble. Helen and Pawnie stand right down close to the stage, smoking and chatting; their backs are partly turned to the audience, but their comments are clearly audible.]

Helen

Tom Veryan doesn’t dance as well as he thinks he does.

Tom Veryan doesn't dance as well as he believes he does.

Pawnie

With that figure he ought to be marvelous.

With that figure, he should be amazing.

Helen

He’s too athletic.

He's too fit.

Pawnie

Anyhow, I’m sure he’s a success at the Bath Club.

Anyway, I’m sure he’s doing well at the Bath Club.

Helen

Doesn’t Florence look astounding?

Doesn’t Florence look amazing?

Pawnie

Absolutely. She knows exactly what suits her.

Absolutely. She knows exactly what looks good on her.

Helen

Where’s David?

Where's David at?

[88]

Pawnie

He went off to his study to smoke.

He went to his office to smoke.

Helen

I do wish Florence wouldn’t be irritable with him in front of everybody. I felt acutely uncomfortable at dinner.

I really wish Florence wouldn’t be cranky with him in front of everyone. I felt super uncomfortable at dinner.

Pawnie

It makes Nicky furious as a rule, but to-night he was too occupied with that stupid little fool Bunty Mainwaring to take any notice.

It usually makes Nicky furious, but tonight he was too focused on that ridiculous little fool, Bunty Mainwaring, to pay any attention.

Helen

She’s an excellent type.

She's an excellent person.

Pawnie

Very average; I only hope nothing will come of Nicky’s mania for her.

Very average; I just hope nothing comes of Nicky’s obsession with her.

Helen

I don’t think we need worry.

I don’t think we need to worry.

Pawnie

Why?

Helen

Wait and see, my dear.

Just wait and see, dear.

[89]

Clara

[Leaving Nicky at the piano and advancing on Pawnie]

[Leaving Nicky at the piano and moving towards Pawn Shop]

Come and dance, Pawnie, and tell me how divinely I sang on Tuesday.

Come dance, Pawnie, and let me know how beautifully I sang on Tuesday.

Pawnie

[Agreeably]

Sure!

You didn’t.

Clara

Ten for cruelty.

[They start to dance. Helen moves over to the mantelpiece for a cigarette.]

[They start to dance. Helen walks over to the mantelpiece for a cigarette.]

Helen

Have you a match, Nicky?

Got a match, Nicky?

Nicky

Isn’t this a marvelous tune?

Isn’t this an amazing song?

Helen

Fascinating! [She goes over and sits next to him. Gently slipping her hand into his coat pocket.] Darling, I do want a match. [She brings out a little box.] What a divine little box!

Fascinating! [She walks over and sits next to him. Gently slipping her hand into his coat pocket.] Babe, I really want a match. [She takes out a little box.] What a cute little box!

[Nicky stops playing and jumps up.]

Nicky stops playing and jumps up.

[90]

Nicky

[Violently]

[Fiercely]

Helen, give that to me!——

Helen, hand that to me!

[Everyone stops dancing.]

Everyone pauses the dance.

Clara

Nicky dear, don’t be tiresome.

Nicky, don’t be a hassle.

Nicky

[Recovering himself.]

[Getting back on track.]

I’m sick of playing. Let’s have the gramophone again. [To Helen.] Here’s a light, dearie.

I’m tired of playing. Let’s get the gramophone going again. [To Helen.] Here’s a light, sweetheart.

[He takes match-box out of another pocket and lights Helen’s cigarette. She looks at him queerly for a moment, then he restarts the gramophone and everyone begins to dance again except Helen and Bruce Fairlight. Helen goes over to the fireplace and takes a coffee-cup from the mantelpiece.]

[He pulls a matchbox out of another pocket and lights Helen's cigarette. She looks at him oddly for a moment, then he restarts the record player and everyone starts dancing again except Helen and Bruce Fairlight. Helen walks over to the fireplace and grabs a coffee cup from the mantelpiece.]

Helen

Whose coffee is this? Some one drank mine, and I’d hardly touched it.

Whose coffee is this? Someone drank mine, and I barely touched it.

Bruce

If it had no sugar in it, it’s mine.

If there’s no sugar in it, it’s mine.

[91]

Helen

[Draining it]

It had no sugar in it.

It didn't have any sugar in it.

Florence

You’re dancing abominably, Tom.

You're dancing terribly, Tom.

Tom

Oh, Am I?

Oh, am I?

Florence

What’s the matter with you?

What’s wrong with you?

Tom

I don’t know. I suppose I’m tired.

I don’t know. I guess I’m tired.

Florence

You’re not usually tired when you’re dancing with me.

You usually aren’t tired when you’re dancing with me.

Tom

Oh, Florence, don’t nag!

Oh, Florence, stop nagging!

Florence

How dare you speak to me like that?

How can you talk to me like that?

[She stops dancing and goes over to the fireplace.]

[i]She stops dancing and walks over to the fireplace.[/i]

Tom

[Following her]

Following her

I say, Florence—I’m sorry——

I’m sorry, Florence—

[92]

Pawnie

Let’s stop the music for a moment and think of something really marvelous to do.

Let’s pause the music for a moment and think of something truly amazing to do.

Bunty

No, let’s go on dancing.

No, let's keep dancing.

Clara

I’m exhausted.

I’m tired.

Pawnie

[Stopping the gramophone]

[Turning off the record player]

What was that divine game we played coming back from Paris, Helen?

What was that amazing game we played on the way back from Paris, Helen?

Helen

Just ordinary “Clumps,” wasn’t it?

Just regular “Clumps,” right?

Bunty

I loathe “Clumps.”

I hate "Clumps."

Nicky

What about the History game?

Bruce

What’s that?

What’s that all about?

Bunty

Oh no, Nicky; it’s too intellectual.

Oh no, Nicky; it’s too smart.

[93]

Florence

There’s a Mah-Jong set in the drawing-room.

There’s a Mahjong set in the living room.

Pawnie

How divine! Let’s make up a table immediately.

How amazing! Let’s set up a table right away.

Clara

I won’t be happy until some one gives me a set made entirely of jade.

I won't be happy until someone gives me a set made completely of jade.

Nicky

Come on, Bunty.

Let's go, Bunty.

Bunty

[Looking at Tom]

[Checking out Tom]

I can’t play it.

I can't play it.

Nicky

You can; you used to play in Paris with Yvonne.

You can; you used to hang out in Paris with Yvonne.

Bunty

I’ve forgotten it.

I forgot it.

Nicky

You’ll soon remember again.

You’ll remember again soon.

[He drags her off.]

He pulls her away.

Pawnie

Come along, Clara.

Come on, Clara.

[94]

Clara

I insist on Mr. Fairlight learning.

I insist that Mr. Fairlight learns.

Bruce

I’m afraid I’m no good at that sort of thing.

I’m afraid I’m just not good at that kind of thing.

Clara

You’ll be able to put it in one of your plays.

You can use it in one of your plays.

Pawnie

Come and watch; it’s too thrilling for words.

Come and check it out; it’s too exciting to describe.

[Clara, Bruce and Pawnie go off.]

[Clara, Bruce and Pawnie head out.]

Helen

Have you only one set, Florence?

Do you only have one set, Florence?

Florence

Yes. Isn’t it maddening? Clara promised to bring hers down, but forgot.

Yes. Isn’t it infuriating? Clara promised to bring hers down, but she forgot.

Helen

Does Bruce Fairlight play Bridge?

Does Bruce Fairlight play cards?

Florence

No, I don’t think so.

Nah, I don't think so.

Helen

Dramatists are such a comfort in a house party, aren’t they?

Dramatists are such a delight at a house party, aren't they?

[She goes off.]

She leaves.

[95]

Tom

Are you coming, Florence?

Are you coming, Flo?

Florence

No.

Tom

[Nonplussed]

Confused

Oh!

Florence

But please don’t let me stop you going. I’m sure you’re dying to be with the others.

But please don’t let me stop you from going. I’m sure you’re dying to be with the others.

Tom

I say, Florence, I wish you wouldn’t go on like that.

I really wish you wouldn’t act like that, Florence.

Florence

I don’t know what’s the matter with you; you’ve never behaved like this before.

I don’t know what’s going on with you; you’ve never acted like this before.

Tom

I haven’t behaved like anything.

I haven't acted like anything.

Florence

You’ve been exceedingly rude to me, both at dinner and afterwards.

You’ve been really rude to me, both at dinner and afterwards.

[96]

Tom

I wasn’t at dinner.

I missed dinner.

Florence

Yes, you were; you snapped me up when I said I didn’t like Elsie Saunders.

Yes, you were; you jumped on me when I said I didn’t like Elsie Saunders.

Tom

You know perfectly well she’s a friend of mine.

You know very well that she’s my friend.

Florence

Well, she oughtn’t to be, after the things she’s said about me.

Well, she really shouldn't be, after the things she's said about me.

Tom

You will go on imagining.

You'll keep imagining.

Florence

Nothing of the sort—I know! If you weren’t so dense you’d see, too—the jealousy I have to put up with. I get so tired of it all, so desperately tired.

Nothing like that—I know! If you weren't so thick-headed, you'd see it too—the jealousy I have to deal with. I'm just so tired of it all, so unbelievably tired.

[She becomes a little pathetic.]

She seems a bit pathetic.

Tom

Talk about being different, you’re different too——

Talk about being different, you’re different too—

Florence

I’m unhappy.

I'm not happy.

[97]

Tom

Why?

Florence

Because I hate to see you being put against me.

Because I hate seeing you being pitted against me.

Tom

Florence!

Florence

You’ll understand one day. They’re all very subtle, but I can see.

You’ll get it one day. They’re all really subtle, but I can see it.

Tom

Nobody’s said a word to me about you; they’d better not try.

Nobody's mentioned anything about you to me; they better not try.

Florence

Why, what would you do?

What would you do?

Tom

I’d—I’d be furious.

I’d be mad.

Florence

Oh!

Tom

And I’d let them see it, too.

And I’d show it to them, too.

[98]

Florence

[Holding out her hands]

[Extending her hands]

Tom——

Tom

Yes?

Florence

I forgive you.

Tom

I can’t bear you being angry with me.

I can’t stand it when you’re mad at me.

Florence

Can’t you, really?

Can you not, really?

Tom

It makes me feel beastly.

It makes me feel terrible.

Florence

Come and sit here.

Come sit here.

Tom

[Sitting next to her on the club fender]

That’s a lovely dress.

That's a beautiful dress.

Florence

It is sweet, isn’t it?

It's sweet, right?

[99]

Tom

You always wear wonderful clothes.

You always wear great clothes.

Florence

Do I, Tom?

Am I, Tom?

Tom

You know you do.

Florence

Do you remember the very first time we met?

Do you remember the first time we met?

Tom

Rather.

Instead.

Florence

Oxford’s so full of romance, isn’t it?

Oxford’s full of romance, isn’t it?

Tom

It was when you came down.

Florence

Thank you, Tom dear.

Thank you, dear Tom.

Tom

We did have fun.

We had fun.

Florence

You used to come up to matinées, and I’d motor you back afterwards.

You used to come to the matinées, and I’d drive you back afterward.

[100]

Tom

Ripping!

Awesome!

Florence

That reminds me, I’ve got seats for “Rolling Stones” on Tuesday. Don’t forget.

That reminds me, I have tickets for the “Rolling Stones” on Tuesday. Don’t forget.

Tom

You never said you were going to get them.

Florence

It doesn’t matter. I thought I did. We’d better dine at Claridges.

It doesn’t matter. I thought I did. We should probably eat at Claridge's.

Tom

But, Florence, I—I can’t come!

But, Florence, I can’t make it!

Florence

Why not?

Tom

I promised to go out.

I promised to hang out.

Florence

Who with?

Who are you with?

Tom

Mother.

Mom.

[101]

Florence

Can’t you put her off? It will be such a good first night.

Can’t you postpone her? It will be such a great first night.

Tom

Well—you see, as a matter of fact—it’s rather awkward. I put her off the other day——

Well—you see, actually—it’s kind of awkward. I delayed her the other day——

[There is a slight pause.]

[There's a brief pause.]

Florence

[A trifle coldly]

A bit coldly

Oh, well, never mind, we’ll go some other night.

Oh, well, forget it, we’ll go another night.

[Enter David.]

David

Hallo, Florence! I thought you were in the drawing-room.

Hallo, Florence! I thought you were in the living room.

Florence

They’re playing Mah-Jong, and there’s only one set. I shall break in presently.

They're playing Mah-Jong, and there's just one set. I'll join in soon.

Tom

I’ll just go and see how they’re getting on.

I’m just going to check how they’re doing.

[This obvious excuse for getting out of the room is not lost upon Florence.]

[This obvious excuse for leaving the room doesn't escape Florence.]

Florence

Yes, do.

Sure, will do.

[102]

Tom

Come and play soon.

Come play soon.

[He goes out quietly.]

He leaves quietly.

Florence

Don’t you think this is a divine frock?

Don’t you think this dress is amazing?

David

Very pretty.

Very beautiful.

Florence

You and Helen seemed to be very thick at dinner. What were you talking about?

You and Helen seemed really close at dinner. What were you talking about?

David

Nothing much. I like Helen.

Not much. I like Helen.

Florence

Only because she flatters you and listens to everything you say.

Only because she compliments you and hangs on to every word you say.

David

She doesn’t flatter me.

She doesn't compliment me.

Florence

I suppose she was talking about the farm, and giving her opinions.

I guess she was talking about the farm and sharing her thoughts.

David

We did discuss the farm a little.

We talked about the farm a bit.

[103]

Florence

She doesn’t know a thing about it, really.

She doesn't know anything about it, really.

David

Perhaps not, but it passed the time.

Perhaps not, but it kept me occupied.

[He goes out.]

He is going out.

[Florence sits still for a moment, then she wearily buries her face in her hands. Enter Nicky.]

[Florence pauses for a moment, then she tiredly hides her face in her hands. Enter Nicky.]

Nicky

[Going to her]

Heading to her

What’s the matter, darling?

What’s wrong, darling?

Florence

Nothing. I’ve got a slight headache.

Nothing. I have a slight headache.

Nicky

Why don’t you go Byes?

Why don’t you go bye?

Florence

I can’t; it’s much too early.

I can't; it's way too early.

Nicky

I’m sick of Mah-Jong.

I’m done with Mah-Jong.

Florence

Who’s playing now?

Who’s playing right now?

[104]

Nicky

Pawnie and Helen and Clara are trying to teach Bruce Fairlight; he’s an awful fool at it.

Pawnie, Helen, and Clara are trying to teach Bruce Fairlight; he’s really bad at it.

[He sits down at the piano and plays absently.]

He sits down at the piano and plays without really thinking.

Florence

You must get Bunty out of that habit of contradicting everything people say.

You need to help Bunty stop contradicting everything people say.

Nicky

I don’t see why.

I don't get it.

Florence

It’s bad breeding.

It's poor upbringing.

Nicky

[Striking a note viciously]

[Striking a note harshly]

Who cares nowadays? We’ve all got a right to our opinions.

Who cares these days? We all have the right to our opinions.

Florence

She seems to forget that I’m much older than she is.

She seems to forget that I’m a lot older than she is.

Nicky

That’s no argument, mother; it’s silly only to remember your age when some one says something you don’t like.

That’s not a valid point, mom; it’s ridiculous to only focus on your age when someone says something you don’t like.

[105]

Florence

She’s having a bad effect on you.

She’s having a negative impact on you.

Nicky

Nonsense!

Florence

You’ve changed since Paris.

You've changed since Paris.

Nicky

Naturally.

Of course.

Florence

You never used to be rude to me.

You weren't ever rude to me before.

Nicky

Oh, damn, I’m not rude.

Oh, come on, I'm not rude.

Florence

Yes, you are.

Nicky

Well, don’t start running down Bunty.

Well, don’t start trash talking Bunty.

Florence

Stop playing—stop playing!

Stop messing around—stop messing around!

Nicky

[Getting up angrily]

Getting up angrily

Oh, God!

Oh my God!

[He goes towards door and collides with Helen.]

[He walks toward the door and bumps into Helen.]

[106]

Helen

What’s happening?

What's going on?

Florence

Nothing. Bunty’s just putting Nicky against me. I knew she’d try to.

Nothing. Bunty’s just turning Nicky against me. I knew she would try to.

[She goes out.]

She goes out.

Helen

You must be having a delightful evening! You leave the drawing-room, having rowed with Bunty, and come here and row with Florence.

You must be having a nice evening! You leave the living room after arguing with Bunty and come here to argue with Florence.

Nicky

Mother’s impossible.

Mom's impossible.

Helen

She’s no different from what she’s always been.

She’s exactly the same as she’s always been.

Nicky

Well, I haven’t realized it before.

Well, I didn’t realize that before.

Helen

[Taking a cigarette and lighting it]

[Grabbing a cigarette and lighting it up]

You haven’t been engaged before.

You haven't been involved before.

Nicky

I’m hating this house party.

I’m not enjoying this house party.

[107]

Helen

[Lightly]

[Gently]

Don’t say that, dear; it’s not kind.

Don’t say that, sweetie; it’s not nice.

Nicky

You know I don’t mean you.

You know I’m not talking about you.

Helen

Are you very much in love?

Are you in love?

Nicky

Yes.—No.—I don’t know.

Yes. No. I don't know.

Helen

I wonder.

I’m curious.

Nicky

It’s utterly devastating, anyhow.

It’s totally heartbreaking, anyway.

Helen

When did you meet her?

When did you see her?

Nicky

About five months ago.

Around five months ago.

Helen

What was she doing in Paris?

Nicky

Oh, I don’t know—fooling about.

Oh, I don’t know—messing around.

[108]

Helen

Splendid.

Awesome.

Nicky

She’s been studying French literature.

She’s studying French literature.

Helen

Why?

Nicky

She’s going to write—herself—some day.

She'll write for herself someday.

Helen

Oh, I see!

Got it!

Nicky

Helen, do you like her?

Helen

I can’t tell yet—yesterday was the first time I’d ever set eyes on her.

I can't say for sure—yesterday was the first time I ever saw her.

Nicky

She’s wonderfully intelligent.

She's incredibly smart.

Helen

Yes—I’m sure she is.

Yes—I'm sure she is.

Nicky

You don’t like her?

You don't like her?

[109]

Helen

I tell you—I’m not sure yet.

I’m telling you—I’m not sure yet.

Nicky

It’s generally the way—one’s friends always hate one another.

It's usually the case that friends always dislike each other.

Helen

[Smiling]

[Grinning]

It is difficult for you, isn’t it?

It's tough for you, right?

Nicky

I should so like you to like her.

I really want you to like her.

Helen

Very well—I’ll try.

Sure—I’ll give it a shot.

Nicky

She’s utterly opposite to me in every way.

She's completely different from me in every way.

Helen

Yes, I see that.

Yeah, I see that.

Nicky

But that’s as it ought to be, isn’t it?

But that’s how it should be, right?

Helen

It depends.

It varies.

[110]

Nicky

I need a sort of restraining influence terribly.

I really need some kind of strong guidance.

Helen

Yes, Nicky.

Sure, Nicky.

Nicky

She’s awfully good for me.

She’s really good for me.

Helen

Is she?

Nicky

Yes—she curbs me when I get temperamental and silly.

Yes—she keeps me in check when I get moody and goofy.

Helen

I always felt you needed encouraging more than curbing.

I always felt you needed support more than restraint.

Nicky

[Laughing]

[Laughing]

Oh, Helen—aren’t you a darling!

Oh, Helen—aren’t you sweet!

Helen

I mean it.

I'm serious.

Nicky

You’re wrong, though—I’m all over the place.

You're wrong, though—I'm everywhere.

[111]

Helen

Anyhow, I do hope you’ll be very happy with her.

Anyways, I really hope you’re super happy with her.

Nicky

I don’t suppose I shall ever be that. I haven’t got the knack.

I don’t think I’ll ever be that. I just don’t have the talent for it.

Helen

Do you work hard?

Do you put in effort?

Nicky

Yes.

Yep.

Helen

Really hard?

Really difficult?

Nicky

Frightfully.

Scarily.

Helen

Liar!

Nicky

If you’d seen me in Paris—studying, studying—all night long until the gray dawn put the guttering candle to shame—and my nerveless hands dropped from the keys——

If you had seen me in Paris—studying, studying—all night long until the gray dawn made the flickering candle look bad—and my tired hands fell away from the keys——

[112]

Helen

Candles gutter awfully quickly when they’re burned at both ends.

Candles burn out really fast when they're lit at both ends.

Nicky

Meaning that I look a debauched wreck of my former self?

Meaning that I look like a total mess compared to who I used to be?

Helen

Exactly.

Nicky

If you go on encouraging me at this rate I shall commit suicide.

If you keep encouraging me like this, I might end up taking my own life.

Helen

You do resent anyone taking a real interest in you, don’t you?

You really don’t like it when someone takes a genuine interest in you, do you?

Nicky

I distrust it.

I don't trust it.

Helen

Why?

Nicky

I don’t know—I’m not worth it.

Helen

You seem to be suffering from a slight inferiority complex.

You seem to be dealing with a bit of an inferiority complex.

[113]

Nicky

Not a bit of it—I’m gay and witty and handsome.

Not at all—I’m funny, charming, and attractive.

Helen

Oh, Nicky, you’re so maddening.

Oh, Nicky, you’re so frustrating.

Nicky

Don’t be cross, Helen.

Don't be upset, Helen.

Helen

I’m one of the few people who know what you’re really like, and you won’t give me the credit for it.

I’m one of the few people who really know you, and you won’t acknowledge that.

Nicky

Do you think you do, honestly?

Do you really think you do?

Helen

Yes—and I’m exceedingly worried about you.

Yes—and I’m really worried about you.

Nicky

You needn’t be.

You don’t have to be.

Helen

You’re sensitive and reserved and utterly foolish.

You're sensitive, reserved, and completely naive.

Nicky

Thank you—I’m beginning to feel beautifully picturesque.

Thank you—I’m starting to feel really picturesque.

[114]

Helen

And you’re scared.

And you’re afraid.

Nicky

Why! What have I to be scared about?

Why! What do I have to be scared of?

Helen

Would you like me to tell you?

Nicky

No.

Helen

Why not?

Nicky

Because you’re a sentimentalist, and you see things that aren’t there at all.

Because you’re sentimental, and you notice things that aren’t really there at all.

Helen

You’re far more sentimental than I.

You’re much more sentimental than I am.

Nicky

Darling Helen—you’ve got such a lovely mind—like a Christmas card—with frosted robins and sheep wandering about in the snow—bleating.

Darling Helen—you have such a beautiful mind—like a Christmas card—with frosted robins and sheep wandering around in the snow—bleating.

Helen

All the same, I should give up drugs if I were you.

All the same, I would give up drugs if I were you.

[115]

Nicky

Helen!

Helen

Well?

Nicky

I don’t know what you mean.

Helen

Do you think I can’t see?

Do you think I can’t see it?

Nicky

[Forcing a laugh]

[Faking a laugh]

You’re being terribly funny, aren’t you?

You’re being really funny, aren’t you?

Helen

You fool! You unutterable little fool!

You idiot! You absolute little fool!

Nicky

Don’t be dramatic, dear.

Don't be so dramatic, dear.

Helen

I thought you had common sense; I credited you with more intelligence than that.

I thought you had common sense; I gave you more credit for intelligence than that.

Nicky

If you persist in being absurd.

If you keep acting ridiculous.

[116]

Helen

[Suddenly with intense feeling]

Suddenly with strong emotion

Nicky, don’t resist me, don’t fight me; I’m your friend; I wouldn’t have said a word if I weren’t. You’ve got to stop it; you haven’t gone very far yet; there’s still time. For God’s sake listen to reason.

Nicky, don’t push back, don’t struggle; I’m your friend; I wouldn’t say anything if I didn’t care. You need to stop this; you haven’t gotten very far yet; there’s still time. For heaven’s sake, please listen to reason.

Nicky

Shut up, shut up, don’t speak so loudly.

Shut up, shut up, don’t talk so loudly.

Helen

Nicky, throw it away.

Nicky, toss it out.

Nicky

When did you find out?

When did you learn?

Helen

To-night, you know, when you were playing, but I’ve guessed for ages.

To-night, you know, when you were playing, but I’ve suspected for a long time.

Nicky

You needn’t be frightened, Helen; I only take just the tiniest little bit, once in a blue moon!

You don’t need to be scared, Helen; I just take a tiny bit, once in a while!

Helen

If anything goes wrong, you’ll take a lot. Throw it away.

If something goes wrong, you’ll face a lot. Just get rid of it.

[117]

Nicky

What could go wrong?

What could possibly go wrong?

Helen

Never mind, throw it away!

Forget it, toss it out!

Nicky

I can’t. Look out; somebody’s coming.

I can’t. Watch out; someone’s coming.

[Enter David.]

David

Hallo!

Hello!

Nicky

Hallo, father!

Hey, Dad!

David

What’s the matter?

What's wrong?

Nicky

The matter—why?

The issue—why?

David

You look very worried.

You look really worried.

Nicky

Helen and I have just had a grand heart-to-heart talk; we’ve undone our back hair, loosened our stays and wallowed in it.

Helen and I just had an intense heart-to-heart conversation; we let our hair down, loosened our corsets, and really got into it.

[118]

David

Oh, I see!

Got it!

Helen

We haven’t seen one another for so long—it was inevitable.

We haven't seen each other in ages—it was bound to happen.

David

You never came and looked at the farm this morning. I waited for you.

You never came to check out the farm this morning. I waited for you.

Nicky

I’m awfully sorry, father—I just went on sleeping.

I’m really sorry, Dad—I just kept sleeping.

Helen

I’ll see you later, Nicky.

See you later, Nicky.

Nicky

All right.

Alright.

[Helen goes out.]

[Helen is going out.]

David

How do you think your mother’s looking?

How do you think your mom looks?

Nicky

Splendid—the same as ever.

Awesome—as good as always.

[119]

David

Would you like a cigar?

Want a cigar?

Nicky

No, thanks, father—I’m not very good at them.

No, thanks, Dad—I’m not really good at them.

David

I was just on my way to bed—there are far too many people in the house.

I was just about to go to bed—there are way too many people in the house.

Nicky

[Smiling]

[Grinning]

You must be used to that by now.

You must be familiar with that by now.

David

You ought to stay down here, you know—during the week, and get some fresh air.

You should stay down here, you know—during the week, and get some fresh air.

Nicky

I’ve got such millions of things to do in London.

I have so many things to do in London.

David

Worth doing?

Worth it?

Nicky

Yes, of course.

Sure thing.

David

You look as though you needed a rest.

You look like you could use a break.

[120]

Nicky

You needn’t worry about me—I feel splendid.

You don’t need to worry about me—I feel great.

David

She seems a nice girl.

She seems like a nice girl.

Nicky

Who—Bunty?

David

Yes. Quiet and untiresome.

Yes. Calm and not exhausting.

Nicky

She’s a darling!

She’s great!

David

When do you propose to get married?

When do you plan to get married?

Nicky

I don’t know. The engagement’s only a sort of try out, you know.

I don't know. The engagement is just a kind of trial, you know.

David

Oh, I see. I didn’t realize that. I’m so unversed in modern technicalities.

Oh, I get it. I didn't notice that. I'm really not up to speed on modern tech stuff.

Nicky

It’s her idea really—just to tread water for a bit.

It’s her idea, really—just to take a break for a while.

[121]

David

It sounds an excellent plan.

That sounds like a great plan.

Nicky

I’m awfully glad you like her.

I’m really glad you like her.

David

Is she musical?

Is she into music?

Nicky

Oh, yes—frightfully!

Oh, yes—really scary!

David

Good!

Great!

Nicky

Father, I think I will come down here for a few days—and work quietly.

Father, I think I’ll come down here for a few days and work quietly.

David

If you do that I’ll go up to London every other day. I see so little of you when you’re at the flat.

If you do that, I’ll go up to London every other day. I see so little of you when you’re at the apartment.

Nicky

That’s settled then. I wonder what mother will say!

That’s settled then. I wonder what Mom will say!

David

I’ll talk to her.

[122]

Nicky

All right. She won’t bother about us much.

All right. She won’t pay much attention to us.

David

No—I don’t suppose she will. I think I’ll be getting along to bed now. Good night, my boy!

No—I don't think she will. I guess I'll head to bed now. Good night, kid!

Nicky

Good night, father!

Good night, Dad!

[They shake hands, and David pats Nicky’s shoulder rather tentatively. He goes upstairs and Nicky wanders to the piano. He plays absently, and Bunty enters.]

[They shake hands, and David gives Nicky's shoulder a light pat before heading upstairs. Meanwhile, Nicky meanders over to the piano. He plays absentmindedly, and Bunty walks in.]

Bunty

I want to talk to you.

Nicky

[Still playing]

Still playing

All right.

Okay.

Bunty

Perhaps you’d stop playing for a minute.

Perhaps you'd take a break from playing for a minute.

Nicky

Won’t you let me woo you with a little Scriabine?

Won’t you let me charm you with a bit of Scriabine?

Bunty

Please stop.

[123]

Nicky

[Rising]

[Trending]

I’m unappreciated—that’s what it is.

I’m unappreciated—that’s really it.

[There is a slight pause—he goes over to her.]

[i]He pauses for a moment and walks over to her.[/i]

I say, Bunty——

I said, Bunty——

Bunty

What?

What’s up?

Nicky

Before you say anything awful to me, I am sorry for being rude just now.

Before you say anything terrible to me, I am sorry for being rude just now.

Bunty

So you ought to be.

So you should be.

Nicky

Will you forgive me?

Bunty

Yes, I forgive you.

Nicky

I’ve been irritable all the evening.

I’ve been in a bad mood all evening.

Bunty

Give me a cigarette, Nicky.

Give me a cig, Nicky.

[124]

Nicky

Here.

[They both smoke.]

They both vape.

Bunty

Thanks.

You're welcome!

Nicky

What did you want to talk to me about?

What did you want to discuss with me?

Bunty

Lots of things—us!

So much—us!

Nicky

[Hardening]

[Strengthening]

Oh, I see!

Got it!

Bunty

Don’t you think it’s rather silly—being engaged?

Don’t you think it’s kind of silly—being engaged?

Nicky

No, not at all.

No, not really.

Bunty

I do.

Nicky

Just because we bickered a bit to-night?

Just because we argued a little tonight?

[125]

Bunty

No, not only because of that.

No, not just because of that.

Nicky

Why then?

Why is that?

Bunty

Can’t you see?

Can't you see?

Nicky

No.

Bunty

Well, we’re not very suited to each other, are we?

Well, we really don’t match well, do we?

Nicky

Why do you suddenly say that?

Why are you saying that all of a sudden?

Bunty

Because I’ve only just realized it.

Because I've just now realized it.

Nicky

I’m sorry.

I apologize.

Bunty

It’s not your fault particularly.

It's not really your fault.

Nicky

I’m glad.

I’m happy.

[126]

Bunty

It’s circumstances and surroundings.

It's the situation and environment.

Nicky

Oh, that can be altered quite easily. We’ll change the shape of the house—we’ll take all that wall away and turn that into a studio—you love studios, don’t you?—then we’ll transform the drawing-room into an enormous aviary.

Oh, that can be changed pretty easily. We’ll modify the shape of the house—we’ll remove all that wall and make it a studio—you love studios, right?—then we’ll turn the living room into a huge aviary.

Bunty

It’s practically that now!

It's basically that now!

Nicky

And then we’ll——

And then we’ll—

Bunty

Shut up, Nicky!

Be quiet, Nicky!

Nicky

I’m only trying to be amenable.

I'm just trying to be agreeable.

Bunty

Are you, really?

Are you serious?

Nicky

Yes, I’m putting up a sort of defense, Bunty. I have a feeling that you’re going to be unpleasant,[127] and I want to establish myself comfortably before you start.

Yes, I’m putting up a kind of defense, Bunty. I have a feeling that you’re going to be rude,[127] and I want to get settled before you start.

Bunty

I don’t want to be unpleasant—only honest.

I don’t want to be rude—just honest.

Nicky

You won’t let the two run together, will you?

You won't let the two go together, will you?

Bunty

[With vehemence]

Fervently

You’re hopeless, hopeless, hopeless!

You're hopeless, hopeless, hopeless!

Nicky

Yes—I think I am, rather.

Yeah—I think I am, actually.

Bunty

In a way I’m glad—it makes it easier.

In a way, I'm glad—it makes things simpler.

Nicky

Does it?

Bunty

You’re not in love with me, really—you couldn’t be!

You don't really love me—you couldn't!

Nicky

Please don’t say that.

Please don't say that.

Bunty

Why don’t you face things properly?

Why don't you deal with things the right way?

[128]

Nicky

One generally has to in the end. I like to put it off for as long as possible.

One usually has to do it eventually. I prefer to delay it for as long as I can.

Bunty

That’s cowardly.

That's weak.

Nicky

Don’t be pompous, darling.

Don't be arrogant, darling.

Bunty

You’re a great help, I must say.

You’re really helpful, I have to say.

Nicky

Why should I help to destroy my own happiness?

Why would I help ruin my own happiness?

Bunty

That’s self-pity and self-deception.

That's self-pity and self-deception.

Nicky

Why are you going on like this?

Why are you acting like this?

Bunty

Because I tell you—I’ve realized the truth.

Because I tell you—I’ve discovered the truth.

Nicky

I suppose you’ve taken a hatred to mother!

I guess you’ve developed a dislike for mom!

Bunty

No, not a hatred.

No, not hatred.

[129]

Nicky

You don’t like her.

Bunty

Not very much.

Not much.

Nicky

Why not? She likes you.

Why not? She’s into you.

Bunty

She detests me.

She hates me.

Nicky

Nonsense! Why should she?

Nonsense! Why would she?

Bunty

Because I’m young.

Nicky

What a filthy thing to say!

What a disgusting thing to say!

Bunty

It’s true.

Nicky

It’s nothing of the sort.

It's not like that at all.

Bunty

You’re so stupid sometimes.

You're so dumb sometimes.

[130]

Nicky

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Bunty

Don’t let’s start bickering again.

Let’s not start bickering again.

Nicky

We won’t discuss mother any more then.

We won't talk about mom anymore, then.

Bunty

You started it.

Nicky

I wish I could make you understand her like I do. I mean she’s awfully irritating, I know—but deep down she’s marvelous in spite of everything.

I wish I could help you understand her like I do. I mean, she can be really annoying, I know—but deep down, she’s amazing despite everything.

Bunty

[Coldly]

Coldly

Everything?

Nicky

[Vehemently]

Seriously

Yes, everything! Don’t be a beast, Bunty; just try to see her point a little, even if you do dislike her. She is terribly silly about being “young,” I know, but she’s been used to so much admiration and flattery and everything always, she feels she sort of can’t give it up—you do see that, don’t you? And she hasn’t really anything in the least comforting[131] to fall back upon. She’s not clever—real kind of brain cleverness—and father’s no good, and I’m no good, and all the time she’s wanting life to be as it was instead of as it is. There’s no harm in her anywhere—she’s just young inside. Can’t you imagine the utter foulness of growing old? ’Specially if you’ve been lovely and attractive like she was. The beautiful Flo Lancaster! She used to be known as that. I can remember her when I was quite small, coming up to say good night to me, looking too perfectly radiant for words—and she used to come to the school, too, sometimes, and everyone used to go mad over her, and I used to get frightfully proud and excited——

Yes, everything! Don’t be difficult, Bunty; just try to understand her perspective a bit, even if you don't like her. I know she can be incredibly silly about being “young,” but she’s so used to all the admiration and flattery that she feels she can't let it go—you get that, right? And she doesn’t really have anything comforting to rely on. She’s not really smart—like, true intellectual smart—and dad isn't any help, and I’m not either, and all the time she just wants life to be like it used to be instead of how it is now. There’s nothing bad about her at all—she’s just young at heart. Can’t you picture how horrible it would be to grow old? Especially if you were beautiful and charming like she was. The stunning Flo Lancaster! That’s what she used to be called. I remember her when I was little, coming to say goodnight to me, looking absolutely radiant—and she used to visit the school sometimes, and everyone would go crazy over her, and I would feel incredibly proud and excited——

Bunty

I’ve never heard you talk like this before.

I’ve never heard you speak like this before.

Nicky

I don’t think I ever have.

I don't think I ever have.

Bunty

I like you better clear cut, not blurred by sentiment.

I prefer you straightforward, not muddled by feelings.

[Nicky looks at her for a moment in amazement.]

[Nicky stares at her for a moment in disbelief.]

Nicky

To describe you as hard would be inadequate—you’re metallic!

To call you hard would be an understatement—you’re like metal!

[132]

Bunty

I can see straight.

I can see clearly.

Nicky

[Politely]

[Respectfully]

Can you?

Bunty

Yes. We could never be happy together.

Nicky

Perhaps not.

Maybe not.

Bunty

Shall we just—finish—then?

Should we just finish then?

Nicky

Certainly, I’m sorry we were too modern to have an engagement ring; you’d have been able to give it back to me so beautifully.

Certainly, I’m sorry we were too modern to have an engagement ring; you would have been able to return it to me so beautifully.

Bunty

Don’t be ridiculous!

Stop being ridiculous!

Nicky

Better than being blurred by sentiment.

Better than being clouded by emotions.

[Bunty lights another cigarette and, kicking off her shoes, perches on the club fender and proceeds to warm her feet at the fire.]

[Bunty lights another cigarette and, kicking off her shoes, sits on the club fender and starts to warm her feet by the fire.]

[Enter Clara Hibbert.]

[133]

Clara

My dear, I’m shattered—and I’m going straight to bed—probably for several weeks.

My dear, I’m completely exhausted—and I’m going straight to bed—probably for several weeks.

Bunty

Why?

Clara

Shshsh! He’s coming.

Shh! He’s coming.

Bunty

Who’s coming?

Who's coming?

Clara

Bruce Fairlight. I’ve been teaching him Mah-Jong. These master brains—agony, dear——

Bruce Fairlight. I've been teaching him Mah-Jong. These brilliant minds—such a struggle, dear—

[Enter Bruce Fairlight.]

Bruce

Very interesting, that game.

That game is really interesting.

Clara

[Weakly]

Weakly

I thought you’d like it.

I thought you would like it.

Bruce

It’s interesting psychologically! The concentration and suspense——

It’s interesting psychologically! The focus and tension——

[134]

[Enter Florence, Helen, Pawnie and Tom. Tom is grasping a whisky and soda—Pawnie is eating a biscuit.]

[Enter Florence, Helen, Pawnee and Tom. Tom is holding a whisky and soda—Pawnie is munching on a biscuit.]

Pawnie

I’m quite exhausted; it must be the country air——

I’m really tired; it has to be the fresh country air——

Florence

—It was too lovely, because I started with two red dragons in my hand——

—It was too beautiful, because I began with two red dragons in my hand——

Helen

I wondered who had them——

I wondered who had them—

Pawnie

One more tune, Nicky, before we go to bed——

One more song, Nicky, before we go to sleep—

Florence

Yes, just one——

Yes, just one—

Nicky

[Looking at Bunty]

[Gazing at Bunty]

I’ll play “I love you”—such a romantic tune.

I’ll play “I love you”—such a sweet song.

[He puts on the gramophone.]

He plays the record player.

Bunty

Do.

Do it.

[135]

Helen

What time’s everyone going up in the morning?

What time is everyone getting up in the morning?

Florence

The ten-o’clock’s the best—we’ll have breakfast at nine downstairs.

The best time is ten o'clock—we'll have breakfast at nine downstairs.

Pawnie

[Confidentially]

[In private]

Do you know that in London I can never do more than nibble a piece of thin toast, and whenever I’m away I eat enormously!

Do you know that in London I can never eat more than a bite of thin toast, and whenever I’m away I eat so much!

Nicky

How very peculiar!

How strange!

Pawnie

Your tone revolts me, Nicky. You must never be irascible with your old friends.

Your tone disgusts me, Nicky. You should never be angry with your old friends.

Nicky

I haven’t got any.

I don't have any.

Helen

Nicky!

Nicky

Sorry, Helen.

[136]

Florence

I don’t know what’s the matter with Nicky. He’s been in a vile temper all the evening—his first week-end home, too.

I don’t know what’s wrong with Nicky. He’s been in a terrible mood all evening—especially since it’s his first weekend home.

Nicky

Such a pity, when so much trouble has been taken to make me happy and cozy.

Such a shame, especially after all the effort that’s been put in to make me feel happy and comfortable.

Tom

Come and dance, Bunty.

Come dance, Bunty.

Bunty

No, not now.

No, not right now.

Nicky

Dance with him, Bunty. Chaps must have exercise.

Dance with him, Bunty. Guys need to get some exercise.

Florence

You dance with Bunty, Pawnie—I’ll dance with Tom—come on.

You dance with Bunty, Pawnie—I’ll dance with Tom—let's go.

[She and Tom dance.]

[She and Tom are dancing.]

Helen

The great thing in this world is not to be obvious, Nicky—over anything!

The important thing in this world is not to be obvious, Nicky—over anything!

[Florence and Tom dance, also Helen and Pawnie. Everyone talks at once, as in the beginning of the act.]

[Florence and Tom are dancing, and Helen and Pawn join in. Everyone is talking at the same time, just like at the start of the act.]

[137]

Pawnie

You are infuriating, Helen. It’s a wonderful book.

You’re so annoying, Helen. It’s a great book.

Helen

Thoroughly second-rate.

Very low quality.

Pawnie

What do you think about Mischievous Passion, Fairlight?

Bruce

I never read novels on principle.

I never read novels as a rule.

Pawnie

Well, you must read this—it’s colossal.

Well, you have to read this—it's amazing.

Helen

Don’t be led away by Pawnie, Mr. Fairlight, he has no discrimination.

Don’t be swayed by Pawnie, Mr. Fairlight; he has no judgment.

Pawnie

But I tell you it’s brilliant! Absolutely brilliant!

But I tell you it’s amazing! Absolutely amazing!

Helen

Nonsense.

Pawnie

There are times, Helen, when I could willingly see you dead at my feet.

There are times, Helen, when I'd gladly see you lying dead at my feet.

[138]

Florence

A little slower, for Heaven’s sake!

A bit slower, for heaven's sake!

Nicky

How’s that?

How’s it going?

[He makes it far too slow.]

[He's making it way too slow.]

Florence

I think you’d better go to bed, Nicky.

I think you should go to bed, Nicky.

Helen

We’re all going, anyhow.

We’re all going anyway.

Nicky

Not yet, please, mummy dear—I’m having such a lovely time!

Not yet, please, mom—I’m having such a great time!

[He slams off in a rage.]

He storms off in a rage.

Pawnie

I always knew the Continent was fatal for the young.

I always knew that the Continent was deadly for the young.

Bunty

Nicky’s upset—it’s my fault—we’re not engaged any more.

Nicky's upset—it's my fault—we're not engaged anymore.

Florence

Why—what’s happened?

What happened?

[139]

Bunty

Nothing happened—it was never very serious, really.

Nothing happened—it was never that serious, really.

Helen

I had a feeling that it was.

Bunty

You were wrong.

You were mistaken.

Florence

Well, I must say it’s all been rather abrupt.

Well, I have to say it’s all been pretty sudden.

Bunty

It’s better to finish things off at once—cleanly—if you’re not quite sure, don’t you think?

It’s better to wrap things up all at once—neatly—if you’re not really sure, don’t you think?

Florence

Well, I’m sorry, Bunty. If you feel like that about it there’s nothing more to be said.

Well, I’m sorry, Bunty. If you feel that way about it, there’s nothing more to say.

Bunty

I wouldn’t have mentioned it at all—only you all seemed to be blaming him for being irritable——

I wouldn’t have brought it up at all—except you all seemed to be blaming him for being cranky—

Helen

Poor Nicky!

[140]

Clara

I really must go up to bed now. I’m so tired. Good night, Florence dear.

I really need to head to bed now. I'm exhausted. Good night, dear Florence.

Florence

Good night, Clara. Breakfast at nine. Have you got books and everything you want?

Good night, Clara. Breakfast is at nine. Do you have your books and everything you need?

Clara

Yes, thanks. Good night, everyone.

Yeah, thanks. Good night, everyone.

[Everyone murmurs good night politely.]

Everyone politely says good night.

Florence

Tom, be an angel and fetch me a glass of milk. It’s in the drawing-room.

Tom, be a sweetheart and grab me a glass of milk. It's in the living room.

Tom

All right.

All good.

[He goes off.]

He leaves.

Helen

Come on up, Florence. I’m dead.

Come on up, Florence. I’m done for.

Florence

So am I. Will you turn out the lights when you come?

So am I. Can you turn off the lights when you come?

Pawnie

With beautiful precision, dear.

With stunning precision, babe.

[141]

Florence

[As she and Helen go upstairs]

[As she and Helen go up]

Tell Tom to bring my milk up to me, somebody.

Tell Tom to bring my milk up here, someone.

Pawnie

All right.

All good.

Florence

Good night, Mr. Fairlight.

Bruce

Good night.

Goodnight.

Pawnie

Good night, Florence.

Good night, Flo.

[Florence and Helen go off.]

[Florence and Helen leave.]

Bruce

I suppose we’d all better go up.

I guess we should all head up.

Bunty

Bunty

I don’t feel I could sleep yet.

I don’t feel like I can sleep yet.

[Re-enter Tom with glass of milk.]

[Re-enter Tom with a glass of milk.]

Tom

Hallo! Where’s Florence?

Hey! Where's Florence?

Bunty

Gone up to bed. Will you take her milk to her?

Gone up to bed. Can you bring her milk?

[142]

Pawnie

What’s become of Nicky?

What happened to Nicky?

Tom

In the smoking-room, I think.

In the lounge, I think.

Bruce

Good night, Miss Mainwaring.

Good night, Ms. Mainwaring.

Bunty

Good night.

[They shake hands.]

They shake hands.

Pawnie

I shall come, too—good night.

I’ll come, too—good night.

Tom

Good night.

Goodnight.

Pawnie

[To Bruce as they go upstairs]

[To Bruce as they head upstairs]

When you’re writing, do your characters grow as you go along?

When you're writing, do your characters develop as you progress?

Bruce

No, I think each one out minutely beforehand.

No, I think each one through in detail beforehand.

Pawnie

How too intriguing.

How interesting.

[They go off.]

They leave.

[143]

Tom

So you’ve broken it off already?

So you’ve already broken up?

Bunty

Yes.

Yeah.

Tom

I didn’t know you were going to do it so soon.

I didn't know you were going to do it so soon.

Bunty

It’s better to get things over.

It’s better to just get things done.

Tom

What did he say?

Bunty

Nothing much.

Not much going on.

Tom

Was he furious?

Was he mad?

Bunty

Oh, what does it matter? Don’t let’s go on about it.

Oh, what does it matter? Let’s not dwell on it.

Tom

It’s all damned awkward.

It's all so awkward.

Bunty

What?

[144]

Tom

The whole thing.

The entire thing.

Bunty

You’re rather scared, aren’t you?

You're a bit scared, right?

Tom

No, not exactly—now that I’ve got you to back me up.

No, not really—now that I have you to support me.

Bunty

I shall be glad when we’re out of this house.

I’ll be happy when we’re out of this house.

Tom

So shall I.

I will too.

Bunty

I hate the atmosphere.

I dislike the vibe.

Tom

I don’t know how I’ve stood it for so long.

I don’t know how I’ve put up with it for so long.

Bunty

You didn’t notice it until I came, any more than I noticed Nicky’s atmosphere until you came.

You didn't notice it until I arrived, just like I didn't notice Nicky's vibe until you got here.

Tom

It’s queer, isn’t it?

It’s strange, isn’t it?

Bunty

We’re reverting to type, don’t you see?

We’re going back to our old ways, can’t you tell?

[145]

Tom

How d’ye mean?

What do you mean?

Bunty

Never mind, it’s true.

Forget it, it’s true.

Tom

Do you think I’m being a cad to Florence?

Do you think I'm being a jerk to Florence?

Bunty

Yes, I do rather.

Yes, I really do.

Tom

But, Bunty! You said this morning——

Bunty

That I didn’t see how you could help yourself; neither I do. It’s frightfully difficult, but it’s not altogether your fault, any more than it would have been mine if I’d married Nicky. One gets carried away by glamour, and personality, and magnetism—they’re beastly treacherous things.

That I didn’t see how you could help yourself; neither can I. It’s incredibly hard, but it’s not entirely your fault, just like it wouldn’t have been mine if I’d married Nicky. You get swept away by charm, personality, and magnetism—they’re really deceptive things.

Tom

You are wonderful.

You're amazing.

Bunty

Don’t be silly.

Don't be ridiculous.

[146]

Tom

You’re so cool and clear, and you see everything.

You’re so cool and collected, and you notice everything.

Bunty

I’m sorry—for Nicky.

I’m sorry for Nicky.

Tom

Oh, damn Nicky!

Oh, wow Nicky!

Bunty

[Laughing]

[Laughing]

Oh, Tom!

Tom

Why, what’s up?

What’s up?

Bunty

You’re so dead set.

You’re so determined.

Tom

You’re worth ten of him any day. What’s the use of a chap like that? He doesn’t do anything except play the piano—he can’t play any games, he’s always trying to be funny——

You’re worth ten of him any day. What’s the use of a guy like that? He doesn’t do anything except play the piano—he can’t play any games, he’s always trying to be funny——

Bunty

Shut up, Tom; you’re being rather cheap. I haven’t reverted to type so quickly that I can’t see some of the things I’m missing.

Shut up, Tom; you’re being pretty petty. I haven’t gone back to my old ways so fast that I can’t notice some of the things I’m missing.

[147]

Tom

I wish I knew what you were talking about.

I wish I understood what you were talking about.

Bunty

Oh, God! I feel so miserable!

Oh, God! I feel so awful!

[She burst into tears.]

She started crying.

Tom

[Flummoxed]

Confused

I say—Bunty—for Heaven’s sake——

I say—Bunty—for goodness' sake——

[He puts his arm round her.]

[i]He wraps his arm around her.[/i]

Bunty

[Shaking him off]

Shaking him off

Don’t, don’t. Give me my shoes——

[He picks up her shoes; she puts them on. She is half sobbing all the time.]

[i]He picks up her shoes; she puts them on. She is half sobbing the whole time.[/i]

Tom

I say, old girl, hadn’t you better go to bed? You’re all wrought up!

I say, girl, shouldn’t you go to bed? You’re all worked up!

Bunty

He said beastly things.

He said terrible things.

Tom

I’ll wring his neck.

I’ll choke him.

[148]

Bunty

[With a fresh burst of tears]

[With a new flood of tears]

Shut up, Tom, shut up——

Shut up, Tom, just be quiet——

Tom

Bunty, stop crying—there’s a dear; please, please stop crying——

Bunty, stop crying—come on, please, please stop crying——

[He takes her in his arms and kisses her; she is groping for her handkerchief. Florence comes quietly downstairs.]

[He pulls her close and kisses her; she is searching for her handkerchief. Florence comes down quietly.]

Bunty

I can’t find my hanky!

I can’t find my tissue!

Tom

Here’s mine.

Here’s my version.

Florence

[Like a pistol shot]

Like a gunshot

Tom!

[Tom and Bunty break away.]

[Tom and Bunty split up.]

Tom

Yes, Florence?

Florence

[Ominously]

[Threateningly]

What does this mean?

[149]

Tom

I’m sorry, Florence—I——

Florence

You utter cad!

You absolute jerk!

Bunty

Look here—I should like to say——

Look, I want to say—

Florence

Be quiet—mind your own business.

Be quiet—mind your business.

[Nicky enters.]

[Nicky walks in.]

Nicky

[Seeing tears on Bunty’s face]

What’s the matter—is anybody hurt?

What’s wrong—is anyone hurt?

Florence

[Ominously]

[Threateningly]

No, not hurt!

No, don’t hurt!

Bunty

I banged my hand, that’s all.

I just hit my hand, that’s it.

Florence

Liar!

Nicky

Mother—don’t be so stupid——

Mom—don't be so silly—

[150]

Tom

Florence—I——

Florence—I’m—

Florence

Don’t speak to me——

Don’t talk to me——

Nicky

[Quietly]

[Silently]

Mother—not now—not now—it’s all wrong. Control yourself! Bunty—Bunty—do go to bed—please.

Mother—not now—not now—it’s all wrong. Calm down! Bunty—Bunty—please go to bed.

[He goes to the piano and begins to play jazz.]

[He walks over to the piano and starts playing jazz.]

Bunty

All right—Tom——

All good—Tom——

[Florence goes to the fireplace, trembling with rage. Nicky goes on playing. Tom and Bunty go towards the stairs.]

[Florence walks over to the fireplace, shaking with anger. Nicky keeps playing. Tom and Bunty head towards the stairs.]

Florence

Stop—I want an explanation, please!

Hold on—I need an explanation, please!

Bunty

How dare you speak to me like that?

How can you talk to me like that?

Florence

Get out of my house! Get out of my house!

[151]

Bunty

This is disgusting!

This is gross!

Tom

I say, Florence——

I mean, Florence—

Florence

Get out of my house!

Get out of my place!

Bunty

I shall leave the first thing in the morning; it’s much too late to-night.

I will leave first thing in the morning; it’s way too late tonight.

[She goes off.]

She leaves.

[Nicky never stops playing for a moment.]

[Nicky never stops playing for even a second.]

Florence

Tom. [He goes towards her, absolutely silent.] You kissed her—you kissed her—I saw you!——

Tom. [He walks toward her, completely silent.] You kissed her—you kissed her—I saw you!——

Tom

Yes.

Florence

In this house!

Tom

Yes, Florence. I apologize.

Yes, Florence. I'm sorry.

[152]

Florence

Apologize! You’re beneath contempt. Never speak to me again, never touch me again—I hate you!

Apologize! You’re beneath contempt. Don’t ever talk to me again, don’t ever touch me again—I hate you!

Tom

Look here, Florence—I’m desperately sorry. You see, I’m afraid I love her.

Look, Florence—I’m really sorry. You see, I think I love her.

Florence

[Hysterically]

Hilariously

You dare to stand there and say that to me? It’s incredible—after all I’ve done for you—after all we’ve been to each other. Love! You don’t know what it means. You’ve lied to me—all these months. It’s contemptible—humiliating. Get out of my sight!

You seriously stand there and say that to me? It's unbelievable—after everything I've done for you—after all we've been through together. Love! You have no idea what it truly means. You've been lying to me this whole time. It's disgusting—humiliating. Get out of my sight!

Tom

[Turning and going upstairs]

Going upstairs

Very well.

Alright.

Florence

[Suddenly realizing that he is gone]

[i]Suddenly realizing that he is gone[/i]

Tom—Tom—come back—come back!——

[She runs upstairs after him. Nicky at last stops playing and lets his hands drop from the keys.]

[She runs upstairs after him. Nicky finally stops playing and lets his hands fall from the keys.]

Curtain

[153]

ACT III

Act 3

[154-155]

ACT III

The scene is Florence’s bedroom the same night. About two hours have elapsed. When the curtain rises Florence is lying face downwards on the bed; she is dressed in a very beautiful but slightly exotic négligé.

The scene is Florence's bedroom the same night. About two hours have passed. When the curtain rises Florence is lying face down on the bed; she is wearing a really beautiful but slightly unconventional nightgown.

Helen is standing by the window, fully dressed; she is holding the curtain aside, and a bar of moonlight comes in to mingle with the amber of the dressing-table lights. Florence is obviously extremely hysterical.

Helen is standing by the window, fully dressed; she is holding the curtain aside, and a beam of moonlight comes in to mix with the warm glow of the dressing table lights. Florence is clearly very hysterical.

Helen

Florence, what is the use of going on like that?

Florence, what is the point of acting like that?

Florence

I wish I were dead!

I wish I was dead!

Helen

It’s so cowardly to give way utterly—as you’re doing.

It’s really cowardly to just back down completely—like you’re doing.

Florence

I don’t care—I don’t care!

I don't care—I don't care!

[156]

Helen

If you don’t face things in this world, they only hit you much harder in the end.

If you don’t confront issues in this world, they just come back to hit you even harder later on.

Florence

He loved me—he adored me!

He loved me—he worshipped me!

Helen

Never! He hadn’t got it in him.

Never! He didn’t have it in him.

Florence

After all I’ve done for him, to go to—to Bunty!

After everything I’ve done for him, to go to—Bunty!

Helen

[Leaving the window]

[Closing the window]

If it hadn’t been Bunty it would have been some one else—don’t you see how inevitable it was?

If it hadn't been Bunty, it would have been someone else—don't you see how unavoidable it was?

Florence

How dared they!—Here!—In this house!

How dare they!—Here!—In this house!

Helen

That’s a little thing; it doesn’t matter at all.

That’s a minor issue; it really doesn’t matter.

Florence

It does—it does——

It really does.

Helen

Florence, sit up and pull yourself together.

Florence, sit up and get it together.

[157]

Florence

[Sitting up slowly]

Sitting up gradually

I think I’m going mad.

I think I'm going crazy.

Helen

Not a bit of it; you’re just thoroughly hysterical.

Not at all; you're just completely over the top.

Florence

Give me some water.

Get me some water.

[Helen goes to the bathroom and returns with a glass of water.]

[Helen goes to the bathroom and comes back with a glass of water.]

Florence

[Taking it]

Taking it

What time is it?

What’s the time?

Helen

[Looking at her watch]

Checking her watch

Ten past one.

1:10.

Florence

Don’t go to London by the early train, Helen; stay and come up with me in the car.

Don’t take the early train to London, Helen; stay and ride with me in the car.

Helen

Very well.

Sounds good.

Florence

Thank God, you were here!

Thank goodness you were here!

[158]

Helen

I wish I’d known what was happening; I might have done something.

I wish I had known what was going on; I could have done something.

Florence

What can I do to get him back?

What can I do to win him back?

Helen

Don’t be silly.

Don't be ridiculous.

Florence

What can I do—what can I do?——

Helen

Do you mean to say you’d take him back after to-night?

Do you really mean to say you’d take him back after tonight?

Florence

No, never. Not if he crawled to me—never——

No, never. Not even if he crawled to me—never——

Helen

Well, then, make up your mind definitely never to see him again whatever happens.

Well, then, make up your mind to definitely never see him again, no matter what happens.

Florence

Yes—I will.

Yes, I will.

Helen

Why don’t you go to bed now?

Why don't you go to bed now?

[159]

Florence

I couldn’t sleep.

I couldn't sleep.

Helen

Put it all out of your mind—make an effort.

Put it all out of your mind—try hard.

Florence

I can’t—I’m too unhappy.

I can't—I'm just too sad.

Helen

Think of Nicky.

Think about Nicky.

Florence

Nicky’s young.

Nicky is young.

Helen

That doesn’t make it any better for him.

That doesn't make it any easier for him.

Florence

He’ll get over it in the long run.

He'll move on eventually.

Helen

The long run never counts at the moment.

The long run never matters in the present.

Florence

He wasn’t in love—really?

He wasn't actually in love?

Helen

As much as either you or he are capable of it.

As much as either you or he can do it.

[160]

Florence

He’s well rid of her. She’d never have appreciated him properly—she hasn’t the intelligence.

He's better off without her. She would have never appreciated him the way he deserves—she just doesn't have the smarts.

Helen

I don’t agree with you there—she’s got intelligence right enough.

I don't agree with you on that—she's definitely intelligent.

Florence

Treacherous little beast!

Sneaky little monster!

Helen

Yes, but far-seeing.

Yes, but visionary.

Florence

Are you standing up for her? Do you think it was right of her to get Tom away from me?

Are you supporting her? Do you think it was right for her to take Tom away from me?

Helen

Yes, quite right.

Yes, that's right.

Florence

Helen!

Helen

To do her justice, she didn’t deliberately set herself out to get him away from you at all. She discovered that in spite of the somewhat decadent years Tom was still her type, and likely to remain so. So[161] with common sense she decided to shelve Nicky forthwith and go for him.

To be fair, she didn’t intentionally try to take him away from you at all. She realized that despite the somewhat wild years, Tom was still her type and probably always would be. So[161] using common sense, she decided to put Nicky aside right away and go for him.

Florence

Her type indeed!

Her type for sure!

Helen

Yes, she’d have been quite a nice girl really if she’d been left alone and not allowed to go to Paris and get into the wrong set.

Yes, she would have been a pretty nice girl if she had been left alone and not allowed to go to Paris and get involved with the wrong crowd.

Florence

You are extraordinary, Helen. Do you realize that you’re making excuses for the girl who’s betrayed your best friend?

You’re amazing, Helen. Do you see that you’re justifying the girl who has betrayed your best friend?

Helen

Don’t be so utterly absurd. I’m not making excuses, and, anyhow, she hasn’t betrayed you. She hardly knows you, in the first place, and she’s just followed her instincts regardless of anyone else’s feelings—as you’ve done thousands of times.

Don’t be so completely ridiculous. I’m not making excuses, and, anyway, she hasn’t let you down. She barely knows you to begin with, and she’s just followed her instincts without thinking about how anyone else feels—just like you’ve done a thousand times.

Florence

Helen—you’re being horrible to me!

Helen—you’re being terrible to me!

Helen

I’m not, I’m trying to make you see! You’re battering your head against silly cast-iron delusions, and I want to dislodge them.

I’m not! I’m trying to get you to understand! You’re beating your head against ridiculous, stubborn delusions, and I want to help you get rid of them.

[162]

Florence

Helen, I’m so unhappy—so desperately unhappy.

Helen, I’m really unhappy—so incredibly unhappy.

Helen

Yes, but not because you’ve lost Tom; it’s something far deeper than that.

Yes, but not just because you lost Tom; it’s something much deeper than that.

Florence

What then?

What's next?

Helen

You’re on the wrong tack, and have been for years.

You’re going in the wrong direction, and you have been for years.

Florence

I don’t understand.

I don't get it.

Helen

You won’t understand!

You won't get it!

[Florence gets off the bed and goes over to the dressing-table. She sits and stares at herself in the glass for a moment without speaking.]

[Florence gets out of bed and walks over to the dressing table. She sits down and looks at her reflection in the mirror for a moment without saying anything.]

Florence

My eyes are sore. [She powders her face and sprays a little scent on her hair.] It’s so lovely this—and so refreshing.

My eyes are tired. [She applies some makeup and sprays a bit of perfume in her hair.] It’s so nice—and so refreshing.

Helen

I think I’ll go to bed now.

[163]

Florence

No, wait a little longer with me—please, Helen—just a few minutes.

No, wait a little longer with me—please, Helen—just a few more minutes.

Helen

It’s so hot in here.

It's super hot in here.

Florence

Open the window then.

Open the window now.

Helen

All right.

All good.

[She goes to the window and opens it. Florence takes a cigarette out of a box and then shakes a scent-bottle and rubs the cigarette lightly with the stopper.]

[She walks over to the window and opens it. Florence pulls a cigarette out of a box, then shakes a perfume bottle and lightly rubs the cigarette with the stopper.]

Florence

Do you ever do this? It’s divine.

Do you ever do this? It’s amazing.

Helen

What a wonderfully clear night. You can see the hills right across the valley—the moon’s quite strong.

What a beautifully clear night. You can see the hills all the way across the valley—the moon is really bright.

[Florence goes to the window and stands next to Helen, looking out—she is puffing her cigarette.]

[Florence walks to the window and stands next to Helen, looking outside—she is smoking her cigarette.]

[164]

Florence

I chose this room in the first place because the view was so lovely.

I picked this room to begin with because the view was so beautiful.

Helen

Do you ever look at it?

Do you ever take a look at it?

Florence

[Listlessly]

[Apathetically]

Of course I do, often!

Definitely, I do, often!

Helen

It’s been raining. I wish you’d throw away that cigarette—it spoils the freshness.

It’s been raining. I wish you’d toss that cigarette—it ruins the freshness.

Florence

[Turning away]

Turning away

It’s soothing me—calming my nerves.

Helen

I do wish I could help you—really!

I really wish I could help you—honestly!

Florence

You are helping me, darling—you’re being an angel.

You’re helping me, babe—you’re being amazing.

Helen

[Suddenly angry]

Suddenly furious

Don’t talk so emptily, Florence; I’m worth more than that.

Don’t speak so mindlessly, Florence; I’m worth more than that.

[165]

Florence

I don’t know what you mean.

I don't know what you mean.

Helen

It sickens me to see you getting back so soon.

It disgusts me to see you coming back so soon.

Florence

Getting back?

Headed back?

Helen

Yes, to your usual worthless attitude of mind.

Yes, to your usual unhelpful mindset.

Florence

Helen!

Helen

A little while ago you were really suffering for once, and in a way I was glad because it showed you were capable of a genuine emotion. Now you’re glossing it over—swarming it down with your returning vanity; soon you won’t be unhappy any more—just vindictive.

A little while ago you were genuinely struggling, and in a way, I was glad because it proved you could feel real emotions. Now you're brushing it off—drowning it out with your returning vanity; soon you won’t be sad anymore—just spiteful.

Florence

Don’t go on at me like that—I’m too wretched.

Don’t lecture me like that—I’m feeling really miserable.

Helen

[Going to her]

Going to her

Florence dear, forgive me, but it’s true—and I don’t want it to be.

Florence, my dear, please forgive me, but it's true—and I really wish it wasn't.

[166]

[The door opens and Nicky enters. He is in dressing-gown and pyjamas. His face looks strained and white.]

[The door opens and Nicky walks in. He's wearing a dressing gown and pajamas. His face looks tense and pale.]

Florence

Nicky!

Nicky

Helen, I want to talk to mother, please.

Helen, I’d like to talk to Mom, please.

Helen

All right, Nicky.

Okay, Nicky.

Florence

What is it?

Nicky

I couldn’t sleep.

I couldn't sleep.

Helen

Florence dear—good night.

Good night, Florence dear.

Florence

No—no, Helen—don’t go yet——

No—no, Helen—don’t leave yet——

Helen

I must.

I have to.

Florence

Helen—stay with me.

[167]

Nicky

Please go.

Go ahead.

Helen

I can’t stay, Florence—it’s quite impossible.

I can't stay, Florence—it's just not possible.

[She goes out.]

She’s going out.

Florence

I don’t know what you mean—by coming here and ordering Helen out of my room.

I don't understand what you mean by coming here and telling Helen to leave my room.

Nicky

I’m sorry, mother. I felt I had to talk to you alone.

I’m sorry, Mom. I felt I needed to talk to you privately.

Florence

At this hour of the night? You’re mad!

At this time of night? You’ve got to be crazy!

Nicky

No, I’m not; I think I’m probably more unhappy than I’ve ever been in my life.

Florence

You’re young—you’ll get over it.

You're young—you'll move on.

Nicky

I hope so.

Florence

I knew the first moment I saw her—what sort of a girl she was.

I knew the instant I saw her—what kind of girl she was.

[168]

Nicky

Oh, mother!

Oh, mom!

Florence

It’s true. I had an instinct about her.

It’s true. I had a feeling about her.

Nicky

It’s all been rather a shock, you know——

It’s all been quite a shock, you know——

Florence

[Becoming motherly]

Becoming nurturing

Yes, dear—I know—I know—but you mustn’t be miserable about her; she isn’t worth it. [She goes to kiss him.]

Yes, sweetheart—I get it—I really do—but don’t be sad about her; she’s not worth it. [She goes to kiss him.]

Nicky

[Gently pushing her away]

Gently pushing her away

Don’t, mother!

Don't, mom!

Florence

Listen, Nicky. Go back to bed now—there’s a dear; my head’s splitting.

Listen, Nicky. Go back to bed now—please; my head's pounding.

Nicky

I can’t yet.

I can't do that yet.

Florence

Take some aspirin; that’ll calm your nerves.

Take some aspirin; that will calm your nerves.

[169]

Nicky

I’m afraid I’m a little beyond aspirin.

I’m afraid aspirin isn’t enough for me anymore.

Florence

I don’t want you to think I don’t sympathize with you, darling—my heart aches for you—I know so well what you’re going through.

I don’t want you to think I don’t feel for you, darling—my heart aches for you—I really understand what you’re going through.

Nicky

Do you?

Florence

It’s agony—absolute agony—but, you see—it will wear off—it always does in time. [Nicky doesn’t answer.] Nicky, please go now!

It’s torture—complete torture—but, you see—it will fade away—it always does eventually. [Nicky doesn’t respond.] Nicky, please leave now!

Nicky

I want to talk to you.

Florence

To-morrow—we’ll talk to-morrow.

Tomorrow—we’ll talk tomorrow.

Nicky

No, now—now!

Florence

You’re inconsiderate and cruel—I’ve told you my head’s bursting.

You’re thoughtless and harsh—I’ve already told you my mind’s overloaded.

[170]

Nicky

I want to sympathize with you, too—and try to understand everything—as well as I can——

I want to empathize with you, too—and do my best to understand everything—

Florence

Understand everything?

Get it all?

Nicky

Yes, please.

Sure, go ahead.

Florence

I don’t know what you mean——

Nicky

Will you tell me things—as though I were somebody quite different?

Will you tell me things—as if I were someone completely different?

Florence

What kind of things?

What kind of stuff?

Nicky

Things about you—your life.

Your life and experiences.

Florence

Really, Nicky—you’re ridiculous—asking me to tell you stories at this hour!

Really, Nicky—you’re insane—asking me to tell you stories at this hour!

[171]

Nicky

[With dead vehemence]

With intense force

Mother—sit down quietly. I’m not going out of this room until I’ve got everything straight in my mind.

Mother—please sit down quietly. I’m not leaving this room until I’ve sorted everything out in my mind.

Florence

[Sinking down—almost hypnotized]

Sinking down—nearly hypnotized

Nicky—please—I——

Nicky—please—I—

Nicky

Tom Veryan has been your lover, hasn’t he?

Tom Veryan has been your boyfriend, hasn’t he?

Florence

[Almost shrieking]

Almost screaming

Nicky—how dare you!

Nicky—how could you!

Nicky

Keep calm—it’s our only chance—keep calm.

Keep calm—it’s our only shot—stay calm.

Florence

[Bursting into tears]

Crying uncontrollably

How dare you speak to me like that—suggest such a thing! I——

How can you talk to me like that—suggest something like that! I——

Nicky

It’s true, isn’t it?

Isn’t it true?

Florence

Go away—go away!

Leave me alone!

[172]

Nicky

It’s true, isn’t it?

It's true, right?

Florence

No—no!

Nope—no!

Nicky

It’s true, isn’t it?

It’s true, right?

Florence

No—I tell you—no—no—no!

No—I’m telling you—no—no—no!

Nicky

You’re lying to me, mother. What’s the use of that?

You’re lying to me, Mom. What’s the point of that?

Florence

You’re mad—mad——

You're crazy—crazy—

Nicky

Does father know?

Does dad know?

Florence

Go away!

Leave me alone!

Nicky

Does father know?

Does dad know?

[173]

Florence

Your father knows nothing—he doesn’t understand me any more than you do.

Your dad knows nothing—he doesn’t get me any more than you do.

Nicky

Then it’s between us alone.

Then it’s just between us.

Florence

I tell you I don’t know what you’re talking about.

I honestly don't understand what you're saying.

Nicky

Mother—don’t go on like that; it’s useless. We’ve arrived at a crisis; wherever we go—whatever we do we can’t escape from it. I know we’re neither of us very strong-minded or capable, and we haven’t much hope of coming through successfully—but let’s try. It’s no good pretending any more—our lives are built up of pretenses all the time. For years—ever since I began to think at all, I’ve been bolstering up my illusions about you. People have made remarks, not realizing that I was your son, and I’ve pretended that they were inspired by cattiness and jealousy. I’ve noticed things—trivial incriminating little incidents, and I’ve brushed them aside and not thought any more about them because you were my mother—clever and beautiful and successful—and naturally people would slander you because you[174] were so beautiful—and now I know—they were right!

Mother—stop acting like that; it's pointless. We’ve reached a breaking point; no matter where we go or what we do, we can’t escape it. I realize neither of us is particularly strong-willed or capable, and we don’t have much hope of making it through successfully—but let’s at least give it a shot. It’s pointless to keep pretending—our lives are just built on lies. For years—ever since I started thinking for myself, I’ve been propping up my fantasies about you. People have made comments, not knowing I was your son, and I’ve convinced myself they were driven by jealousy and spite. I’ve noticed things—small, incriminating incidents—and I’ve brushed them off and ignored them because you were my mother—smart and beautiful and successful—and of course people would talk behind your back because you were so stunning—and now I know—they were right!

Florence

Nicky—I implore you—go away now—leave me alone.

Nicky—I’m begging you—just go away now—leave me alone.

Nicky

No, I can’t.

No, I can't.

Florence

You’re cruel—cruel to torment me——

You're so cruel to torment me—

Nicky

I don’t want to be cruel——

I don’t want to be harsh—

Florence

Go to bed then, and we’ll talk everything over quietly another time.

Go to bed then, and we’ll discuss everything calmly another time.

Nicky

It is true about Tom Veryan, isn’t it?

It’s true about Tom Veryan, right?

Florence

No. No——

No. No—

Nicky

We’re on awfully dangerous ground. I’m straining every nerve to keep myself under control. If[175] you lie to me and try to evade me any more—I won’t be answerable for what might happen.

We’re in really dangerous territory. I’m doing everything I can to stay calm. If[175] you keep lying to me and trying to avoid the issue—I can’t promise what might happen.

Florence

[Dropping her voice—terrified]

Whispering in fear

What do you mean?

Nicky

I don’t know—I’m frightened.

I don't know—I'm scared.

Florence

Nicky—darling Nicky—I——

Nicky—dear Nicky—I——

[She approaches him.]

She walks over to him.

Nicky

Don’t touch me, please.

Please don’t touch me.

Florence

Have a little pity for me.

Have a little sympathy for me.

Nicky

Was Tom Veryan your lover?

Was Tom Veryan your partner?

Florence

[In a whisper]

Yes.

Nicky

I want to understand why——

I want to know why——

[176]

Florence

He loved me.

Nicky

But you—did you love him?

But you—did you care for him?

Florence

Yes.

Nicky

It was something you couldn’t help, wasn’t it—something that’s always been the same in you since you were quite, quite young?——

It was something you couldn’t change, right? Something that’s always been a part of you since you were really, really young?——

Florence

Yes, Nicky—yes——

Yes, Nicky—yes—

Nicky

And there have been others, too, haven’t there?

And there have been others, right?

Florence

[With her face in her hands]

I won’t be cross-questioned any more—I won’t—I won’t——

I won't be questioned anymore—I won't—I won't——

Nicky

I wish you’d understand I’m not blaming you—I’m trying to help you—to help us both——

I wish you’d get that I’m not blaming you—I’m trying to help you—to help us both——

[177]

Florence

What good can all this possibly do?

What good can all of this possibly do?

Nicky

Clear things up, of course. I can’t go on any more half knowing——

Clear things up, of course. I can’t keep going on knowing only part of the story——

Florence

Why should that side of my life be any concern of yours?

Why should that part of my life matter to you?

Nicky

But, mother!

But, mom!

Florence

I’m different from other women—completely different—and you expect me to be the same. Why can’t you realize that with a temperament like mine it’s impossible to live an ordinary humdrum life. You’re not a boy any longer—you’re a man—and——

I’m different from other women—totally different—and you expect me to be the same. Why can’t you see that with a personality like mine it’s impossible to live a boring, ordinary life? You’re not a boy anymore—you’re a man—and——

Nicky

I’m nothing—I’ve grown up all wrong.

I’m nothing—I’ve grown up all messed up.

Florence

It’s not my fault.

Not my fault.

[178]

Nicky

Of course it’s your fault, mother—who else’s fault could it be?

Of course it’s your fault, mom—who else’s fault could it be?

Florence

Your friends—the people you mix with——

Your friends—the people you hang out with—

Nicky

It wouldn’t matter who I mixed with if only I had a background.

It wouldn’t matter who I hung out with if I just had a background.

Florence

You’ve got as much money as you want—you’ve got your home——

You have as much money as you want—you have your home—

Nicky

[Bitterly]

Bitterly

Home! That’s almost funny—there’s no peace anywhere—nothing but the ceaseless din of trying to be amused——

Home! That’s kind of funny—there’s no peace anywhere—just the nonstop noise of trying to be entertained—

Florence

David never complains.

Nicky

I don’t suppose you’ve looked at father during the last few years—or you wouldn’t say that.

I don’t think you’ve seen Dad in the last few years—or you wouldn’t say that.

[179]

Florence

He’s perfectly happy because he’s sensible—he lives his own life and doesn’t try to interfere with mine.

He’s completely happy because he’s reasonable—he lives his own life and doesn’t try to mess with mine.

Nicky

It must be your vanity that makes you so dreadfully blind—and foolish.

It must be your vanity that makes you so painfully blind—and foolish.

Florence

Understand once and for all, I won’t be spoken to like this——

Understand once and for all, I won’t be talked to like this——

Nicky

You’ve had other lovers besides Tom Veryan—haven’t you?

You’ve had other partners besides Tom Veryan—haven’t you?

Florence

Yes, I have—I have. Now then!

Nicky

Well, anyhow—that’s the truth—at last——

Well, anyway—that’s the truth—finally——

[He rises, turns his back on her and stands looking out of the window.]

He gets up, turns away from her, and stands looking out the window.

Florence

[After a pause—going to him]

[After a pause—approaching him]

Nicky—don’t be angry—please don’t be angry with me.

Nicky—don’t be mad—please don’t be mad at me.

[180]

Nicky

I’m not angry a bit. I realize that I’m living in a world where things like this happen—and they’ve got to be faced and given the right value. If only I’d had the courage to realize everything before—it wouldn’t be so bad now. It’s the sudden shock that’s thrown the whole thing out of focus for me—but I mean to get it right. Please help me!

I’m not angry at all. I understand that I’m living in a world where things like this happen—and they have to be faced and dealt with properly. If only I’d had the courage to understand everything sooner—it wouldn’t feel so overwhelming now. It’s the sudden shock that’s messed everything up for me—but I intend to sort it out. Please help me!

Florence

[Dully]

Dully

I don’t know what to do.

I don't know what to do.

Nicky

It’s your life, and you’ve lived it as you’ve wanted to live it—that’s fair——

It’s your life, and you’ve lived it the way you wanted to live it—that’s fair—

Florence

Yes—yes.

Yes.

Nicky

You’ve wanted love always—passionate love, because you were made like that. It’s not your fault—it’s the fault of circumstances and civilization; civilization makes rottenness so much easier. We’re utterly rotten—both of us——

You’ve always wanted love—intense love, because that’s just who you are. It’s not your fault—it’s the fault of your situation and society; society makes it so much easier for things to go bad. We’re completely messed up—both of us—

Florence

Nicky—don’t—don’t——

Nicky—please—don't—don’t——

[181]

Nicky

How can we help ourselves? We swirl about in a vortex of beastliness. This is a chance—don’t you see—to realize the truth—our only chance.

How can we help ourselves? We're caught up in a whirlpool of negativity. This is an opportunity—don't you see—that lets us understand the truth—our only chance.

Florence

Oh, Nicky, do stop—go away!

Oh, Nicky, just stop—leave me alone!

Nicky

Don’t keep on telling me to stop when our only hope is to hammer it out.

Don’t keep telling me to stop when our only chance is to work it out.

Florence

You’re overwrought. It isn’t as bad as you think.

You're really upset. It's not as bad as you believe.

Nicky

Isn’t it?

Is it?

Florence

No, no. Of course it isn’t. To-morrow morning you’ll see things quite differently.

No, no. Of course it isn't. Tomorrow morning you'll see things in a whole new light.

Nicky

You haven’t understood.

You don’t get it.

Florence

Yes, I have—I have.

Yep, I do—I do.

[182]

Nicky

You haven’t understood. Oh, my God, you haven’t understood! You’re building up silly defenses in your mind. I’m overwrought. To-morrow morning I shall see things quite differently. That’s true—that’s the tragedy of it, and you won’t see. To-morrow morning I shall see things quite differently. All this will seem unreal—a nightmare—the machinery of our lives will go on again and gloss over the truth as it always does—and our chance will be gone forever.

You don’t get it. Oh my God, you really don’t get it! You’re creating these ridiculous defenses in your mind. I’m feeling overwhelmed. Tomorrow morning, I’ll see things totally differently. That’s true—that’s the tragedy of it, and you won’t realize it. Tomorrow morning, I *will* see things very differently. All of this will feel unreal—a nightmare—the routine of our lives will continue and cover up the truth as it always does—and our chance will be lost forever.

Florence

Chance—chance? What are you talking about—what chance?

Nicky

I must make you see, somehow.

I have to find a way to make you understand.

Florence

You’re driving me mad.

You’re driving me crazy.

Nicky

Have patience with me—please—please——

Be patient with me—please—please——

Florence

[Wildly]

Wildly

How can I have patience with you? You exaggerate everything.

How can I be patient with you? You blow everything out of proportion.

[183]

Nicky

No I don’t—I wish I did.

No, I don’t—I wish I did.

Florence

Listen—let me explain something to you.

Listen—let me break this down for you.

Nicky

Very well—go on.

Alright—continue.

Florence

You’re setting yourself up in judgment on me—your own mother.

You're judging me—your own mom.

Nicky

No, I’m not.

Nope, I'm not.

Florence

You are—you are. Let me speak. You don’t understand my temperament in the least—nobody does—I——

You are—you are. Let me talk. You really don’t get my mood at all—nobody does—I——

Nicky

You’re deceiving yourself—your temperament’s no different from thousands of other women, but you’ve been weak and selfish and given way all along the line——

You’re fooling yourself—your personality isn’t any different from thousands of other women, but you’ve been weak and selfish and have given in all along the way——

Florence

Let me speak, I tell you!——

Let me speak, I’m telling you!——

[184]

Nicky

What’s the use? You’re still pretending—you’re building up barriers between us instead of helping me to break them down.

What’s the point? You’re still pretending—you’re creating walls between us instead of helping me tear them down.

Florence

What are you accusing me of having done?

What are you accusing me of?

Nicky

Can’t you see yet?

Can’t you see now?

Florence

No, I can’t. If you’re preaching morality, you’ve no right to. That’s my affair—I’ve never done any harm to anyone.

No, I can't. If you're preaching about morality, you have no right to. That's my business—I’ve never hurt anyone.

Nicky

Look at me.

Check me out.

Florence

Why—what do you mean?

What do you mean?

Nicky

You’ve given me nothing all my life—nothing that counts.

You’ve given me nothing throughout my life—nothing that really matters.

Florence

Now you’re pitying yourself.

Now you’re feeling sorry for yourself.

[185]

Nicky

Yes, with every reason.

Absolutely, for every reason.

Florence

You’re neurotic and ridiculous. Just because Bunty broke off your engagement you come and say wicked, cruel things to me——

You’re anxious and absurd. Just because Bunty ended your engagement, you come and say awful, mean things to me——

Nicky

You forget what I’ve seen to-night, mother.

You forget what I saw tonight, Mom.

Florence

I don’t care what you’ve seen.

Nicky

I’ve seen you make a vulgar, disgusting scene in your own house, and on top of that humiliate yourself before a boy half your age. The misery of losing Bunty faded away when that happened—everything is comparative, after all.

I’ve seen you create a vulgar, disgusting scene in your own home, and on top of that, embarrass yourself in front of a guy half your age. The pain of losing Bunty faded when that happened—everything is relative, after all.

Florence

I didn’t humiliate myself——

I didn't embarrass myself——

Nicky

You ran after him up the stairs because your vanity wouldn’t let you lose him. It isn’t that you love him—that would be easier—you never love anyone,[186] you only love them loving you—all your so-called passion and temperament is false—your whole existence had degenerated into an endless empty craving for admiration and flattery—and then you say you’ve done no harm to anybody. Father used to be a clever man, with a strong will and a capacity for enjoying everything—I can remember him like that—and now he’s nothing—a complete nonentity because his spirit’s crushed. How could it be otherwise? You’ve let him down consistently for years—and God knows I’m nothing for him to look forward to—but I might have been if it hadn’t been for you——

You chased after him up the stairs because your pride wouldn't let you lose him. It's not that you love him—that would be simpler—you never truly love anyone; you only love them loving you. All your so-called passion and temperament are just illusions—your entire existence has turned into an endless, empty desire for admiration and flattery—and yet you claim you haven't harmed anyone. Dad used to be a smart man, with a strong will and an ability to enjoy life—I can remember him that way—and now he's nothing—a total shell of a person because his spirit's been crushed. How could it be any different? You've let him down over the years—and God knows I'm not someone he can look forward to—but I could have been if it hadn't been for you——

Florence

Don’t talk like that. Don’t—don’t. It can’t be such a crime being loved—it can’t be such a crime being happy——

Don’t talk like that. Don’t—don’t. It can’t be that wrong to be loved—it can’t be that wrong to be happy——

Nicky

You’re not happy—you’re never happy—you’re fighting—fighting all the time to keep your youth and your looks—because you can’t bear the thought of living without them—as though they mattered in the end.

You’re not happy—you’re never happy—you’re fighting—fighting all the time to hold on to your youth and your looks—because you can’t stand the idea of living without them—as if they made a difference in the end.

Florence

[Hysterically]

[Laughing uncontrollably]

What does anything matter—ever?

What does anything ever matter?

[187]

Nicky

That’s what I’m trying to find out.

That’s what I’m trying to figure out.

Florence

I’m still young inside—I’m still beautiful. Why shouldn’t I live my life as I choose?

I’m still young at heart—I’m still beautiful. Why shouldn’t I live my life the way I want?

Nicky

You’re not young or beautiful; I’m seeing for the first time how old you are. It’s horrible—your silly fair hair—and your face all plastered and painted——

You’re neither young nor beautiful; I'm seeing for the first time how old you really are. It’s awful—your silly blonde hair—and your face all caked with makeup——

Florence

Nicky—Nicky—stop—stop—stop!

Nicky—Nicky—stop!

[She flings herself face downwards on the bed. Nicky goes over to her.]

[She throws herself face down on the bed. Nicky walks over to her.]

Nicky

Mother!

Mom!

Florence

Go away—go away—I hate you—go away——

Go away—go away—I can't stand you—go away——

Nicky

Mother—sit up——

Mom—sit up—

Florence

[Pulling herself together]

[Getting herself together]

Go out of my room——

Leave my room—

[188]

Nicky

Mother——

Mom——

Florence

I don’t ever want to see you again—you’re insane—you’ve said wicked, wicked things to me—you’ve talked to me as though I were a woman off the streets. I can’t bear any more—I can’t bear any more!

I never want to see you again—you’re crazy—you’ve said terrible, terrible things to me—you’ve talked to me like I was a woman from the streets. I can’t take it anymore—I can’t take it anymore!

Nicky

I have a slight confession to make——

I have a small confession to make——

Florence

Confession?

Nicky

Yes.

Sure.

Florence

Go away—go away——

Go away—go away—

Nicky

[Taking a small gold box from his pocket]

[i]Taking a small gold box from his pocket[/i]

Look——

Check it out——

Florence

What do you mean—what is it——?

What do you mean—what is it?

[189]

Nicky

Don’t you know?

[Florence takes the box with trembling fingers and opens it. She stares at it for a moment. When she speaks again her voice is quite dead.]

[Florence grabs the box with shaky hands and opens it. She looks at it for a moment. When she speaks again, her voice is completely flat.]

Florence

Nicky, it isn’t—you haven’t——?

Nicky, it isn't—you didn't——?

Nicky

Why do you look so shocked?

Why do you look so surprised?

Florence

[Dully]

Dully

Oh, my God!

OMG!

Nicky

What does it matter?

What difference does it make?

[Florence suddenly rises and hurls the box out of the window.]

[Florence suddenly stands up and throws the box out of the window.]

That doesn’t make it any better.

That doesn't change a thing.

Florence

[Flinging herself on her knees beside him]

Throwing herself down on her knees beside him

Nicky, promise me, oh, promise you’ll never do it again—never in your life—it’s frightful—horrible——

Nicky, promise me, please promise you’ll never do it again—never in your life—it’s terrifying—awful——

Nicky

It’s only just the beginning.

It's just the beginning.

[190]

Florence

What can I say to you—what can I say to you?

Nicky

Nothing—under the circumstances.

Nothing—given the situation.

Florence

What do you mean?

Nicky

It can’t possibly matter—now.

It doesn't matter—now.

Florence

Matter—but it’s the finish of everything—you’re young, you’re just starting on your life—you must stop—you must swear never to touch it again—swear to me on your oath, Nicky—I’ll help you—I’ll help you——

Matter—but it’s the end of everything—you’re young, you’re just starting your life—you have to stop—you have to promise never to touch it again—promise me on your oath, Nicky—I’ll help you—I’ll help you——

Nicky

You!

[He turns away.]

He walks away.

Florence

[Burying her face in her hands and moaning]

Burying her face in her hands and moaning

Oh—oh—oh!

Oh my!

Nicky

How could you possibly help me?

How can you possibly help me?

[191]

Florence

[Clutching him]

[Holding him tight]

Nicky!

Nicky

[Almost losing control]

Almost losing it

Shut up—shut up—don’t touch me——

Shut up—shut up—don’t touch me—

Florence

[Trying to take him in her arms]

[i]Trying to take him in her arms[/i]

Nicky—Nicky——

Nicky—Nicky—

Nicky

I’m trying to control myself, but you won’t let me—you’re an awfully rotten woman, really.

I’m trying to keep it together, but you won’t let me—you’re really a terrible woman.

Florence

Nicky—stop—stop—stop——

Nicky—stop—stop—stop—

[She beats him with her fists.]

[i]She strikes him with her fists.[/i]

Nicky

Leave go of me!

Let go of me!

[He breaks away from her, and going up to the dressing-table he sweeps everything off on to the floor with his arm.]

[i]He pulls away from her, and walking over to the dressing table, he knocks everything off onto the floor with his arm.[/i]

Florence

[Screaming]

Screaming

Oh—oh—Nicky——!

[192]

Nicky

Now then! Now then! You’re not to have any more lovers; you’re not going to be beautiful and successful ever again—you’re going to be my mother for once—it’s about time I had one to help me, before I go over the edge altogether——

Now listen! You’re not going to have any more lovers; you’re not going to be beautiful and successful ever again—you’re going to be my mother for once—it’s about time I had one to help me, before I completely lose it——

Florence

Nicky—Nicky——

Nicky—Nicky—

Nicky

Promise me to be different—you’ve got to promise me!

Promise me you'll be different—you've got to promise me!

Florence

[Sinking on to the end of couch, facing audience]

[Sinking down onto the end of the couch, facing the audience]

Yes—yes—I promise—— [The tears are running down her face.]

Yes—I promise— [She is crying.]

Nicky

I love you, really—that’s why it’s so awful.

I really love you—that’s why it feels so terrible.

[He falls on his knees by her side and buries his face in her lap.]

He drops to his knees beside her and rests his face in her lap.

Florence

No. No, not awful—don’t say that—I love you, too.

No. No, not terrible—don’t say that—I love you, too.

Nicky

[Sobbing hopelessly]

Crying helplessly

Oh, mother——!

Oh, mom——!

[193]

Florence

[Staring in front of her]

Staring at her

I wish I were dead!

Nicky

It doesn’t matter about death, but it matters terribly about life.

It doesn't matter much about death, but it really matters a lot about life.

Florence

I know——

I get it——

Nicky

[Desperately]

Desperately

Promise me you’ll be different—promise me you’ll be different——

Promise me you'll be different—promise me you'll be different——

Florence

Yes, yes—I’ll try——

Sure, I’ll give it a shot.

Nicky

We’ll both try.

We’ll both give it a shot.

Florence

Yes, dear.—Oh, my dear——!

Yes, honey.—Oh, my love——!

[She sits quite still, staring in front of her—the tears are rolling down her cheeks, and she is stroking Nicky’s hair mechanically in an effort to calm him.]

[She sits completely still, staring ahead—tears are streaming down her cheeks, and she is gently stroking Nicky's hair automatically in an attempt to soothe him.]

Curtain

TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE

NOTE FROM THE TRANSCRIBER

Obvious typographical errors and punctuation errors have been corrected after careful comparison with other occurrences within the text and consultation of external sources.

Obvious typos and punctuation mistakes have been corrected after carefully comparing them with other instances in the text and consulting external sources.

Except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the text, and inconsistent or archaic usage, have been retained.

Except for the changes mentioned below, all misspellings in the text, and inconsistent or outdated usage, have been kept.

Some hyphens in words have been silently removed, some added, when a predominant preference was found in the original book.

Some hyphens in words have been quietly removed, and some have been added, based on the main preference found in the original book.

‘DRAMATIS PERSONÆ’ listing: ‘Bruse Fairlight’ replaced by ‘Bruce Fairlight’.

‘DRAMATIS PERSONÆ’ listing: ‘Bruce Fairlight’ replaced by ‘Bruce Fairlight’.

Pg 134: ‘—it was too lovely’ replaced by ‘—It was too lovely’.

Pg 134: ‘—It was too lovely’ replaced by ‘—It was too lovely’.

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